How I Work cover image

How I Work

Want to make time for the things that count? Oliver Burkeman has your time management answers

Jan 29, 2025
Oliver Burkeman, a New York Times bestselling author and columnist for The Guardian, shares wisdom on time management and happiness. He critiques traditional methods like to-do lists, suggesting instead a 'done list' to celebrate accomplishments. Burkeman emphasizes the power of mindset in tackling tasks and the value of embracing distractions as creative opportunities. He also explores simplifying challenges and the need for flexible scheduling to prioritize what truly matters in our lives, inviting us to rethink our relationship with time.
34:28

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Embracing a mindset that views tasks as opportunities rather than obligations fosters a more meaningful connection to work.
  • Shifting from a to-do list to a done list helps cultivate a sense of achievement and acknowledges the reality of unfinished tasks.

Deep dives

Rethinking Productivity

Traditional time management methods, like to-do lists and time blocking, can ironically lead to a never-ending pursuit of productivity, diverting attention from what truly matters. A fresh perspective on time management emphasizes defining tasks not as obligatory items but as opportunities to engage, suggesting that individuals reconsider their approach to work. By shifting focus from completion to comprehension, people can cultivate a more meaningful relationship with their tasks. This reframing encourages a mindset that prioritizes personal connection to work rather than adherence to rigid productivity systems.

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