I love the word “gumption”. I like finding words that cram a lot of ideas into a small space. Gumption is closely related to boldness or courage, but it also relates more to enthusiasm than simply being able to overcome your fears. I think having gumption is important, and it’s something you can possess without […]
My Rebuttal to Steve Pavlina: Getting Started Without Skill
Last week, Steve Pavlina wrote an article entitled, “Skill”. In it, Steve claimed, that most people under-invest in the skill-building phase. In a rush to profit, they don’t spend enough time working on their ability to create value. I agree with Steve that skill-building is important. I’d also agree that many bloggers (or other new […]
How to Stay Motivated in Long Projects
At some point in every long project, you’ll hit a motivational rock-bottom. A bad day, week, or month where you don’t feel like doing any work. You’ve been writing, coding and working for months and the initial enthusiasm that got you started is gone. Now you’re left staring at your computer screen blankly, as doubts […]
Is More Commitment Always a Good Thing?
Last week I wrote two articles about measuring and building your persistence levels. I started on the idea that your level of persistence is your ability to keep going without any positive feedback. Ideally, your persistence would be unlimited, and you wouldn’t quit, even in the face of a complete lack of reinforcement. While more […]
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.