William Gallagher, the Deputy Chair of the Writers Guild of Great Britain and creator of the 58Keys YouTube channel, shares his insights on productivity and creativity. He discusses how he utilizes OmniFocus to manage diverse projects, including his podcast productions. William emphasizes the importance of mentoring young writers, time management strategies, and the balance between creativity and structure. With tips on optimizing productivity systems and staying inspired, his conversation is packed with valuable advice for writers and creative professionals alike.
William Gallagher effectively utilizes automation tools like OmniFocus to streamline his workflow, allowing him to concentrate on creative tasks and mentorship.
Through mentoring young writers, Gallagher not only nurtures their creativity but also rejuvenates his own passion for storytelling and exploration.
Deep dives
Adapting to Change During the Pandemic
The pandemic significantly impacted many professionals, including William Gallagher, who experienced the immediate cancellation of 40 planned events as restrictions forced a halt to in-person engagements. This abrupt disruption posed challenges not only financially but also emotionally, testing his self-worth and professional identity. In response, Gallagher adapted by transitioning to online events, successfully reclaiming a portion of his lost engagements. This mix of live and virtual work has continued, allowing him to maintain a diverse professional landscape that he now enjoys.
Inspiration and Mentorship in Writing
Gallagher finds immense joy in mentoring young writers, cultivating their talent and showcasing their unique perspectives. His experiences with a particular 12-year-old student, who consistently approached writing exercises from a different angle, highlight the importance of nurturing creativity in fresh, unexpected directions. This mentoring role not only fosters growth in young writers but also invigorates Gallagher's own passion and enthusiasm for writing. Engaging with the next generation of storytellers allows him to draw inspiration while contributing to their development.
The Impact of Automation on Creative Work
Automation plays a crucial role in Gallagher's workflow, particularly when using tools like OmniFocus to streamline repetitive tasks associated with his work as a visiting author. By creating a shortcut that efficiently manages tasks related to school visits, Gallagher can focus on the creative aspects of his projects while minimizing logistical burdens. This approach demonstrates how automation can free up valuable mental space, allowing creative professionals to concentrate on innovative tasks. Gallagher describes this process as a template that supports his productivity, showcasing how technology can enhance professional writing.
Curiosity as a Driving Force
William Gallagher's unwavering curiosity drives his creative endeavors and overall zest for life, allowing him to engage deeply with people and their stories. He views every interaction as an opportunity to learn, believing that everyone has something valuable to share. This perspective keeps him engaged and inspired, fueling his passion for exploration and writing. By maintaining an open mind, Gallagher continues to discover new ideas and insights that enrich both his professional and personal life.
Join us as we chat with the multi-talented William Gallagher, deputy chair of the Writers Guild of Great Britain and the creative force behind the 58Keys YouTube channel. William shares how he leverages OmniFocus and other Omni Group products to manage his diverse responsibilities, including producing the Apple Insider podcast and his famous “Three Biscuit Guides."
From automation tips to balancing creative projects, this insightful episode covers the tools and methods William uses to stay organized and inspired. Whether you're a writer or a productivity enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable takeaways on managing work and creativity effectively.