FROM THE VAULT: Charlie Gilkey Talks About Productivity, Projects, And The Process Of Writing
Aug 30, 2023
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Charlie Gilkey, productivity expert, discusses time management, project momentum, life vs. work projects, and the emotional hurdles of starting and finishing projects. He shares insights into writing his book and the balance between emotion and logic in storytelling.
Building structures and accountability is crucial to stay on track and meet deadlines while writing a book.
Pacing and maintaining a consistent work momentum is key to productivity and preventing wasted energy from starting and stopping projects.
Deep dives
The Challenges and Triumphs of Writing a Book
Writing a book is a challenging process that involves overcoming obstacles and facing doubts. The author shares his personal experience of writing a book and discusses the fears and uncertainties that arise throughout the process. He emphasizes the importance of building structures and accountability to stay on track and meet deadlines. By setting up a regular rhythm with his editor and sending monthly progress updates, the author stays motivated and focused. He also highlights the significance of finding a balance between emotion and reason, using both passion and logical steps to keep moving forward.
The Power of Pacing in Productivity
Pacing plays a vital role in productivity. Consistency is key, as maintaining a steady pace helps projects stay in motion and prevents wasted energy from starting and stopping. The author notes that a consistent pace is generally the best approach, like running a marathon instead of sprinting. However, he acknowledges that there are times when adopting a sprint mindset can be effective, especially for projects that are driven by fear or insecurity. It is crucial to find the right balance and understand what works best for each individual and project. The author encourages readers to view productivity as a lifelong learning experiment and to embrace the concept of self-compassion.
Making All Projects Matter
The author delves into the concept of making all projects matter, whether they are work-related or personal life projects. He challenges the notion that only professional projects are considered important, emphasizing how tasks in our personal lives require time, energy, and attention as well. By expanding one's perspective to view everything as a project, individuals can make better choices and focus on what truly matters. The author encourages readers to assess their projects, letting go of those that don't align with their values or goals and prioritizing the projects that bring fulfillment, growth, and joy.
Navigating Doubts and Finishing Strong
The author shares his experience and strategies for navigating doubts and finishing projects strong. He acknowledges the common tendency for people to be more inclined towards starting projects rather than completing them. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the thrashing that often accompanies projects and the emotional challenges that arise at different stages. The author suggests finding a balance between emotions and logic, being strategic, and setting up structures to stay accountable. He also highlights the significance of overcoming negative self-talk and embracing the mindset of mastery that comes from finishing projects.
Welcome to this special revisit of my conversation with Charlie Gilkey. Originally broadcast in September 2019, Charlie shares insights into the world of productivity, how to manage projects, both in work and life, and the intricate process he underwent while writing his book.
Key Discussion Points
Time Management and Seasonal Productivity: How the nature of summer, with its longest days and home-bound children, affects our productivity. The art of pacing oneself to maintain consistent work momentum.
Project Momentum: The principle of the five projects rule, maintaining focus, and the art of intentionality. The essential questions for adaptation and discernment, and a practical trick to list and complete three main tasks a day.
Life vs. Work Projects: Exploring the concept of life projects and the psychological struggles tied to initiating and completing them. The value of looking at all tasks, no matter how mundane, as projects.
The Closet of Doom: The emotional hurdles that many face when starting a project, the importance of project completion, and the mastery that comes with finishing.
Writing a Productivity Book: Insights into Charlie's writing process, collaborations with colleagues like yours truly, James Clear, Seth Godin, and others. The battle of dedication that went into the creation of the book.
Emotion and Logic Harmony: The balance between emotion and logic in storytelling and its significance. Navigating through emotional challenges to maintain story cohesion.
With advice that is both practical and profound, Charlie's insights can serve as guidance for anyone navigating their projects, be it in life or work. Don't forget to pick up his book, "Start Finishing: How to Go From Idea to Done", available from any bookseller.
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