Here are my key insights form Madeleine Dore’s enlightening book, “I Didn’t Do The Thing Today”.
The Myth of the Perfect Routine
Having a perfectly optimized routine might sound ideal, but it leaves no room for spontaneity. Missing one part of your routine can make you feel like a failure, pushing you to wait for the ‘perfect’ tomorrow. This creates a stale routine.
Reevaluate Your Priorities
Life events often make us rethink our priorities. If you’re stuck in a rut, use your routine to prompt new activities and become a better version of yourself. Accept yourself as you are, instead of solely focusing on what needs improvement.
Embrace a Flexible Approach
Instead of a perfectly ordered routine, try a checklist of small things. It’s less about perfection and more about progress. Plus, time feels slower when you’re doing new things and learning. So, keep learning!
Be a Time Realist
Let’s talk about being a time realist instead of a pure time optimist. Recognize what you can realistically achieve in a day and don’t overburden yourself.
Internal Drive vs External Ambition
Drive is internally driven, while ambition is often externally motivated. Focus on what truly matters to you, not what others expect from you.
Combat Decision Fatigue
Decision fatigue is real! One hack is to not overthink small decisions. Save your mental energy for what truly matters. And remember, if you’re making decisions, it means you’re alive—so make them count!
Avoid the Comparison Trap
Comparing yourself to others can be a downward spiral. Remember, you’re often seeing their highlight reel. Focus on your own joy and achievements, not what others appear to be doing.
Planning and Productivity
Be realistic about your daily goals. Sometimes, not planning can be the best plan. Create limitations on your time to focus on what’s truly important.
We only get one life, so make sure to do the things you find meaningful. Action precedes motivation—enjoy the process, not just the outcome. Progress is enjoyable, so aim for delightful discipline.
Tackle Tasks Effectively
Brian Tracy suggests “eating a frog” early—tackling your most difficult task first. Alternatively, start with something you enjoy to get into a good mood, boosting your productivity.
Protect Your Attention
Protect your attention. You can only focus on one thing at a time. Limit social media, and if you can’t find focus, take a break. Relax and find joy in the moment.
Embrace Imperfection
Perfection is the enemy of progress. It stops you from trying, failing, and learning. Judge others by their intentions, not just their actions, and extend that kindness to yourself.
Be Kind and Curious
Take a moment to be curious about others. Be kind. If you came back after being dead, you’d cherish all the mundane moments. Remember, you’ll be remembered by how you made others feel, not just what you achieved.
Conclusion
Letting go of productivity guilt is about embracing flexibility, focusing on what truly matters, and being kind to yourself and others. Practice these insights from Madeleine Dore’s “I Didn’t Do The Thing Today,” and you’ll lead a more fulfilling and joyful life.
