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When playing a musical instrument, proper technique is the path of least resistance.
It only seems more difficult to use correct technique if you’ve developed a habit of playing a different way.
You are actually more effective when you work less hard.
As with a lot of physical skills from weight-lifting to running to using a kitchen knife, refining your technique is actually a matter of removing unnecessary effort, doing the most with the least.
Read MoreI received hundreds of comments on a recent video in which I used the clearing of a brush pile to demonstrate how a person might make incremental progress toward a goal.
Such a high volume of engagement yields fascinating patterns. One common response goes something like this: “Oh, I could never do a project over multiple days. When I do something, I have to get it all the way done.”
Read MoreMy video workflow is supposed to be as follows:
Every Wednesday: script or outline five videos.
Every Thursday: shoot five videos.
Every Friday: edit and format five videos.
If I do that, I will have five videos “in the can,” ready for the following week.
Read MoreIn all of the years I wanted to write or practice music consistently but didn’t, I don’t think it was a lack of self-discipline.
After all, I wanted to do these things. And I did many other difficult things that I hadn’t wanted to do.
So what was the problem?
Prioritization. I spent all my time doing those other things.
Read MoreFor some reason — maybe hormones, maybe the weather, maybe the moon phase — I am operating with extra energy this week.
Each day, I’m waking up early and getting right to work. Little tasks I’ve been putting off are getting done with no fuss. Big projects are moving forward.
I could keep the same schedule as always, but I’m leaning into it. I’m well aware that this sense of flow may not last, so I’m stepping up my hours and following the energy.
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