There are essentially two different modes of thought you can apply when deciding what to do: purpose and curiosity. Acting through purpose means accomplishing a project or task because you have a known outcome. Writing this article is an act of purpose, I want to update my blog with new content, so I’m writing with […]
The Evils of Partial Boredom
Two days ago, I argued that boredom is the enemy of success and productivity. Instead of trying to discipline yourself to push through boredom, you should be eliminating it all together. Boredom often masks a deeper fear of failure and risk that forces you to lead a safe, but uninteresting life. One reader, however, pointed […]
Boredom is the Enemy
“Boredom is the enemy, not some abstract ‘failure.’” Tim Ferriss “People tolerate waaaay too much boredom in their lives.” Ben Casnocha If you measured your life, not by achievements, but by how much boredom you could avoid, would you live life differently? Would you accomplish less? Or, by eliminating the things that dull you, would […]
How I’m Learning to Stop Worrying
“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” –Serenity Prayer If you want to save wasted energy, stress and pain, stop worrying about things when you don’t have any power to control them. Ignoring something when you’ve decided […]
I'm a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, podcast host, computer programmer and an avid reader. Since 2006, I've published weekly essays on this website to help people like you learn and think better. My work has been featured in The New York Times, BBC, TEDx, Pocket, Business Insider and more. I don't promise I have all the answers, just a place to start.