The Obvious Choice 341 I Less Doing, More Living I Jonathan Goodman and Ari Meisel
Jul 11, 2025
Ari Meisel, a productivity expert and author, shares insights on optimizing life through systems and automation. He discusses how embracing constraints can drive innovation while managing family and career. The conversation also covers the nuances of outsourcing creative tasks and the importance of human taste, even in the age of AI. Intentional communication tools are highlighted for enhancing clarity, efficiency, and deeper connections in business. Ari emphasizes structured feedback systems to boost productivity and motivation, making a strong case for modernizing our workflows.
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Jon's Productivity Before Fatherhood
- Jon Goodman improved his productivity deeply in preparation for fatherhood, using Ari Meisel's book for guidance.
- His wife was most grateful for the time and effort he invested before their first child was born.
Constraints Breed Innovation
- Constraints often breed innovation by forcing focus and prioritization, similar to how CEOs with families become more effective.
- Some difficulties, like poor sleep or limited time, can train us to perform optimally under pressure and unpredictability.
Use Time Constraints Effectively
- Shortening deadlines forces you to prioritize and get work done faster, even if quality must sometimes be sacrificed.
- Recognize tasks you cannot do and delegate them to others to focus on what only you can do.
