Life and Art from FT Weekend
Tim Harford’s advice for how to do less
Jan 23, 2024
Tim Harford discusses the idea of subtracting things in order to improve and enjoy more by doing less. He explores the concept of cognitive reframing and prioritizing reading, and reflects on the challenges of implementing subtraction in our lives.
16:01
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Quick takeaways
- Subtraction neglect suggests that people tend to overlook the option of stopping or reducing activities that add value to their lives, and by recognizing the need for subtraction, individuals can make deliberate choices about what they will stop doing in order to create time for new activities or pursuits.
- Applying the concept of subtraction neglect to New Year's resolutions means considering what activities or commitments can be subtracted to make space for new goals, and it involves acknowledging the limited number of hours in a day and the need to prioritize how time is spent.
Deep dives
The Importance of Subtraction Neglect
Many resolutions focus on adding good habits or eliminating bad habits, but often overlook the idea of subtracting something worthwhile. The concept of subtraction neglect suggests that people tend to overlook the option of stopping or reducing activities that add value to their lives. Examples such as Lego building and recipe suggestions demonstrate our inclination to add rather than subtract. However, by recognizing the need for subtraction, individuals can make deliberate choices about what they will stop doing in order to create time for new activities or pursuits.
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