43 Folders

Back to Work

Merlin’s weekly podcast with Dan Benjamin. We talk about creativity, independence, and making things you love.

Join us via RSS, iTunes, or at 5by5.tv.

”What’s 43 Folders?”
43Folders.com is Merlin Mann’s website about finding the time and attention to do your best creative work.

'What will I most regret...'

A question that I have started asking myself when I have trouble starting to work, or finding particular motivation to do something specific, is:

"What will I most regret not having done now?"

This is a replacement to my usual question of "What should I really be doing right now?" I find this version helpful, since I am not very self-disciplined and usually want to surf the web or smth vaguely fun, so work seems like a chore. This question makes me feel like work is the opportunity for future happiness, which makes it seem attractive. It helps me view work from the perspective of it having been completed, which is the best kind of work.

Okay, just a thought.

TOPICS: Life Hacks

About duus

duus's picture

Bio

duus is an economist and musician who pursues automation of life with GTD, bash scripts, and vigilant mindfulness.

 
EXPLORE 43Folders THE GOOD STUFF

Popular
Today

Popular
Classics

An Oblique Strategy:
Honor thy error as a hidden intention


STAY IN THE LOOP:

Subscribe with Google Reader

Subscribe on Netvibes

Add to Technorati Favorites

Subscribe on Pageflakes

Add RSS feed

The Podcast Feed

Cranking

Merlin used to crank. He’s not cranking any more.

This is an essay about family, priorities, and Shakey’s Pizza, and it’s probably the best thing he’s written. »

Scared Shitless

Merlin’s scared. You’re scared. Everybody is scared.

This is the video of Merlin’s keynote at Webstock 2011. The one where he cried. You should watch it. »