Some problems are like getting a diploma: you work at it for a while, and then you’re done forever. Learning how to ride a bike… Read More »Diploma problems, toothbrushing problems, and Russian Dolls
These might be the most important qualities for doing anything. Talent In every interview I’m asked what’s the most important quality a novelist has to… Read More »Haruki Murakami on Writing: Talent. Focus. Endurance.
The work necessary to maintain peace Change Your education The education of other people, old and new Work to improve and maintain public health The… Read More »As Long As It Takes (3): Things Which By Their Nature Are Never Finished
This is not to say that you can’t or shouldn’t affect the speed at which these things happen – just that when you’ve done what… Read More »As Long As It Takes (2): Things That Take As Long As They Take (and which you can’t or don’t want to rush)
We speed addicts must crash to earth. We have to give up. You surrender to the reality that things just take the time they take,… Read More »As Long As It Takes (1): Oliver Burkeman on Patience
If it matters to you, support it by showing up when it’s happening. Come – bringing a good version of yourself* – whether you feel… Read More »Building trust by showing up
There’s a fine line between (a) planning your work, pacing yourself, and sticking to your office hours and ( b) when the time comes, doing… Read More »Making it happen
Taking responsibility means that you commit to doing what’s necessary to make something happen – and that you pay for your mistakes. We are often… Read More »Responsibility: who pays?
It’s a wonderful feeling to be ahead of the day. Up early, time to spare, space to think, an open road ahead where you’ll get… Read More »Ahead of the day
Sweep up. Mop the floor. Spend five minutes – five minutes! – a day putting things back in their places or working out where their… Read More »On mopping the floor