This is very thought provoking! I can see how this would work and I really want to go over this again and learn the steps. Looking forward to the next instalment!
What I find striking about this, Benjamin, is you have described some keystone moments I know I been living for the past 2 years.
So about two years ago I finally started developing the habit of sitting at my computer to do my own work outside of work (your Protected Block of Time). I had to start at the Atomic Habits 2-minute level and have now built it to 1-2 hours on average per day.
I've only really started Identifying Problems I Already Understand, and that's been going for a couple of months. But the time between 2 years ago and a few months ago definitely helped in increasing and refining how I spent that Protected Time. A stepping stone, in other words.
Final point: as of 2 weeks ago, I was let go from my company (on good terms with a lot of safety net). This has been a jolt for me, and it's really helped me see the allocation problem. I had the unease you mention, yes. But it's only in these 2 weeks that I've realised my capabilities could in theory be matched to many other jobs I'd prefer, ones which may even help better develop my side-project.
In fact, I see it the allocation problem as such a problem that I am hesitant to jump right back into the job market. I have some runway, so I'm going to use it.
Thank you for pointing that out. I had similar experiences. I used to quit my job as a mediadesigner in 2022. I was totally drawn out. Fortunately I had saved some money and I own an affordable flat, so I had the opportunity to learn a lot about myself and my needs and lots of new stuff I like to do. At the moment I'm healing from a sport injury, but I'm almost back on track and I'm already looking forward for a new job with less hours, so that I have enough time for my own creative projects. It's really important to set boundaries and take care of yourself. Unfortunately I had to learn this the hard way.
There are so many gems here! You articulated something I've understood for some time but didn't have words to describe: "The most valuable ideas rarely come from inventing something new but from articulating something others have not yet learned to see."
And given readers a great way to identify and develop those insights.
This is very thought provoking! I can see how this would work and I really want to go over this again and learn the steps. Looking forward to the next instalment!
Thanks Adele. It Takes a lot of effort at first, but wince you’ve done it fir a few weeks it gets easier
Hi! I just found you on Substack and feel inspired. just wanted to thank you for that. I’m on my way.
Great! Welcome to your new writing journey :)
In my profession as a lawyer, my writing has always been more “technical.” A bit antiseptic. Now, it’s time for my writing to develop and reveal me.
What I find striking about this, Benjamin, is you have described some keystone moments I know I been living for the past 2 years.
So about two years ago I finally started developing the habit of sitting at my computer to do my own work outside of work (your Protected Block of Time). I had to start at the Atomic Habits 2-minute level and have now built it to 1-2 hours on average per day.
I've only really started Identifying Problems I Already Understand, and that's been going for a couple of months. But the time between 2 years ago and a few months ago definitely helped in increasing and refining how I spent that Protected Time. A stepping stone, in other words.
Final point: as of 2 weeks ago, I was let go from my company (on good terms with a lot of safety net). This has been a jolt for me, and it's really helped me see the allocation problem. I had the unease you mention, yes. But it's only in these 2 weeks that I've realised my capabilities could in theory be matched to many other jobs I'd prefer, ones which may even help better develop my side-project.
In fact, I see it the allocation problem as such a problem that I am hesitant to jump right back into the job market. I have some runway, so I'm going to use it.
Perfect. Well done for starting when you did. Now you have the foundations and confidence to dig in and start building
Thank you for pointing that out. I had similar experiences. I used to quit my job as a mediadesigner in 2022. I was totally drawn out. Fortunately I had saved some money and I own an affordable flat, so I had the opportunity to learn a lot about myself and my needs and lots of new stuff I like to do. At the moment I'm healing from a sport injury, but I'm almost back on track and I'm already looking forward for a new job with less hours, so that I have enough time for my own creative projects. It's really important to set boundaries and take care of yourself. Unfortunately I had to learn this the hard way.
I wish you all the best! Hugs from Austria!
Thank you. I wish you a speedy recovery
There are so many gems here! You articulated something I've understood for some time but didn't have words to describe: "The most valuable ideas rarely come from inventing something new but from articulating something others have not yet learned to see."
And given readers a great way to identify and develop those insights.