I move into a new place in a couple weeks, one where I share maintenance responsibilities of the property with the two other co-owners who will live in the flats above me. Living on the ground floor I … more
Get 80% Done with 20% of the Work
The 80/20 rule is one of the most inspired legends of the modern age. There are several versions, and I whip it out pretty regularly as a generic aspiration. It comes from the Pareto Principle which … more
Get Lost in New York City, or Just Get Lost
My first day in Brooklyn I tote my iPhone from block to block consulting it for restaurant recommendations, checking the routes to the cafe where I plan to start writing this article, and then mapping … more
The Pleasure and Productivity of Planned Parallel Play
Next weekend my choir, The Conspiracy of Beards, is touring New York City, singing, goofing off, and stressing out because we've taken time away from our day jobs. Today one of our bearded brethren … more
When to Drag ‘m, When to Drop ‘m.
My Love— We're together forever it seems. We know how good we are for each other. You love my ambition, and I revel in the peace you bring me each day. Run with me this time. Don't stay … more
9 Signs of Ass-Kicking Credibility
In a previous article The Fast Path to Credibility, I suggest that well-communicated empathy will get you a long way to gaining trust. This is fundamental stuff, and I feel safe saying that anyone … more
The Role That Feeds All Others: The Stoker
In the story The Little Engine That Could, children are taught that obstacles can be overcome with willpower, optimism, and hard work. As the plot goes, when larger engines refuse to carry a long … more
How Can Divorce Go Well?
It may sound odd, but one of the most successful things I've ever done is get divorced. Actually, getting divorced wasn't the big success; what I'm proud of is how four people shared a common goal of … more
Due Credit to Stephen Covey’s “First Things First”
I hope you don't think I have a formula for a great life, other than this: Align what you do with what you believe is the best thing to do.† I made this website to help us quit futzing around in … more
Are You Facing Big Change?
I'm going through one of the biggest changes in my life, and I'm kinda scared. I'm losing my home, my wife, my business partner, and the community I built around my beautiful household. I'm not afraid … more