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Settling the Mind vs Settling the System
When we want to focus, we need to first, actively consider where we want our mind to be. This process takes time and is a practiced art. We settle our mind. We allow thoughts to come to mind, at which point we can then reflect, decide, and ultimately act.
Where, then, does a task manager sit in this process? Optimally, we have a simple set of well considered tasks sitting nearby. They should reflect what is important, routines and projects alike.
But if it does not, then what comes to mind is that we may not know everything that might be important. We may then need to settle the system.
To settle the system, we must consider the idea of a genuinely trusted system. We can reflect:
How trustworthy is this to keep things off of my mind?
Settling the mind and settling a system are quite related. If something comes to mind, we might consider, “Is this because I do not trust my system”? Is it that an idea is not saved, settled, or placed in some way that I feel it would come back to me when and where it would be useful to?
We might wonder: “When do I decide to settle my mind vs settle the system?” But it is a false question.
Settling the mind takes precedence. It is primary. Our mind can say when it does not trust a system. Working on the system is then one option of many. We do not need to compulsively tend to any system. It may be that we are perfectly fine without one for a period of time. The decision to work on some focus is exactly that–a decision, be that to work on the system or on anything else.
What is Productivity?
Productivity is many things. For some, it is about doing a lot in a little time.
But, truly, productivity is so much more. It is about:
- Setting yourself up for success.
- Being focused where you want to be.
- Doing things that you find meaningful.
- Being creative, sometimes even in harsh environments.
- Forging your own paths.
- Finding your voice and delivering it well.
- Knowing and actively deciding on your obligations.
- Knowing where and how to say “no”.
- Avoiding procrastination.
Too often, many of us fall into just going along with and fighting whatever the world throws at us. “Go with the flow!”, we say. Meanwhile, we might think, “I’d like to do that one thing. Maybe one day I will.” The days go by. The goal never arrives, and then we wonder why or blame circumstance.
But when we learn to take charge of our lives and the world
around us, we start living life with intention.
Of course, striking out may seem scary. It takes courage to live life with purpose and on purpose. Roadblocks and worries, fears and concerns show up everywhere.
This is my passion. I want to help you to find that sense of your own unique play to meet the world so that you can:
- Create a life that is yours.
- Find and follow an inner guide in a way that works for you and those you care for.
- Decide on your obligations and meet them while building the world you want.
Productivity Journal
The Fear of Losing Control to our Tools
An attempt to understand the role of tools in our environments
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