Andrew Shell

Previously, I discussed reducing friction by using the simplest system that will get the job done (see Small Pieces, Loosely Joined). I briefly described (at the end) that I used a weekly checklist to get through my week.

Today I interviewed for a leadership position at work. During the interview, the interviewer asked what my philosophy was for leading and mentoring people.

Here are three of my favorite books about productivity and goal setting.

Once you have your goals in mind and know what you want to do, the next trick is to get yourself to do it.

The number one thing that sabotages me regularly is a lack of clarity.

If you're a software developer, you probably at one point or another have heard of the Unix philosophy of "small pieces, loosely joined."

Goal Funnels (see You Need a Goal Funnel) can be overwhelming. So here is another strategy to use to help flesh out your Goal Funnel.

When you focus on the past (positive or negative), you're creating inertia. That's what habits are. They require effort to get started but then require minimal effort to keep them going.

When you're driving, you shift into a higher gear so you can continue accelerating. If you continue accelerating at the current gear, you'll wear out your engine and burn up a lot of gas.

When you're trying to change your behavior, it's easy to fall into old habits. You've practiced these bad habits for a long time and it's foolish to think you can just decide to change and make it happen.