going the long hard stupid way is the best way

Author Ben Short reminds us why the hard work is worth it:

"... looking at the work done and the work still to do, most people would have written the whole thing off as too much sweat for too little gain. But I didn't want an easy life. I wanted a beautiful one."

But busyness has a way of stealing creativity from you. Generative work, like art and writing, requires long periods of nothingness: it’s only in that wide empty space that ideas emerge. Long runs, hot showers, commutes that don’t involve harried Slack messages and listening to podcasts at 2x speed. Sitting at the edge of a dock, listening to the o... See more

While stepping into new platforms and niche digital communities is a long-term game, the initial focus shouldn’t be on direct conversions. Instead, the immediate KPIs should centre on building brand affinity, engagement, and traffic. In other words, these early efforts are vital for laying the foundation, fostering a community, and ultimately drivi... See more

Many concepts can be explained concisely, in simple language, and we should all strive for clarity. But the aphorism is a mistake, for a number of thoughts approximate the carpenter’s craft, and to meaningfully reveal them requires time and attention. Sometimes these cannot simply be told to another at all, they must be grown. For a topical example... See more

Simplicity takes an enormous amount of time and effort.

My favorite quote is by Goethe: at the moment of commitment, the universe conspires to help you. The universe knows when you’re committed. All the trials and tribulations are merely tests of your commitment. Pass the test. Keep going. Even if the rest of the world ignores you, the universe sees you.

We’ve been sold this bill of goods by hucksters capitalizing on the human inclination for results. And the chance to bring that goal sitting on the horizon a little closer. Yet somehow we’re all surprised when things we’ve barely fought to acquire fail to deliver satisfaction. The instant gratification disappears nearly as fast as it arrives. As th... See more