361: Managing Time and Expectations

In 'This Here Flesh,' Cole Arthur Riley reflects on her own health struggles, including neurological disorders and vision problems, and delves into the stories of her family, particularly her father and grandmother. The book is a spiritual meditation that explores themes of dignity, liberation, rest, joy, rage, and repair. Riley weaves together biblical interpretations, personal narratives, and historical context to address issues of white supremacy, intergenerational trauma, and the importance of collective memory. The book is divided into fifteen chapters that guide the reader through a journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and the search for liberation and healing.

In this book, Cal Newport draws on the habits and mindsets of historical figures like Galileo, Isaac Newton, Jane Austen, and Georgia O’Keefe to propose a new approach to productivity. He argues against the modern culture of 'pseudo-productivity,' where busyness is mistaken for actual productivity. Instead, Newport advocates for 'slow productivity,' which involves doing fewer things, working at a natural pace, and obsessing over quality. The book combines cultural criticism with practical advice to help readers transform their work habits and achieve more sustainable and meaningful accomplishments.