1. Brain distraction
I’ve learnt that our brains are predicting machines while reading an old article from David Elikwu Predicting Distraction. We’re all aware that there is a complex relationship between our brains and the supercomputers in our pockets.
2. Deliberate Imperfection
Many in the world of product management would agree that shipped is better than perfect. Similarly, the Stoic philosopher Epictetus said perfection was impossible and not the goal, although we could still work towards it. Does this mean we should look to the other end of the line and seek out imperfection? Austin Kleon talks in his article The art of imperfection about how, in Navajo culture, rug weavers would leave little imperfections in their work. He also sights examples from punk rock and Lee Scratch Perry too.
3. Enjoying the present, it’s hard
I fully intended to use my newfound time off to pause and recharge. This hasn’t fully happened. I’ve spent a fair amount of time reflecting over the last fortnight, and I’ve also had one eye on future opportunities. Neither of these has allowed me to enjoy the present. The quote below perfectly sums up what I know to be the right approach, but why is it so hard to implement?
“When we only look to what lies ahead, we can fail to maximise our experience of the present moment. We miss out on the joy of being present. As much as we dream of it, happiness doesn’t exist in the conceptual future – happiness only exists in moments of lived experience.” Shamelessly stolen from this tweet.
4. Christmas lists
Love or hate them; many lists appear at this time of year. Hiut Denim Co shared their Do One Thing Well 2022 list. It’s rather good.
5. Characterful Ink
I love an ink pen. Writing or drawing with a fountain pen on good quality paper provides a flow that isn’t replicated with anything else. Over time, the nib of a quality pen will take on the artist’s character, helping mould a signature look. You only need to look at the illustrations of Quentin Blake or Gerald Scarfe as great examples. But can the ink itself have character? Well, Mont Blanc thinks so. They’ve created a range of Great Characters, ink and pens. Each ink colour represents characters like Enzo Ferrari, the Brothers Grimm and Jimi Hendrix.