“I think the word ‘procrastinate’ has come to be viewed unfairly negatively” – Andy Swann

Last week I wrote about chronic procrastination, how I manage mine, and some of the ways my life has improved through productivity techniques. I have to tell you, I felt pretty good about publishing that story, and was eager to share the good news.

The piece was received well on Twitter, which made me feel even better. People began asking me more for details about how I’d beaten my procrastination demons, and even told me they might try some of the things that had worked for me, at some point. Procrastinators aren’t always that big on commitment. Believe me. I should know.

However, the conversation that piqued my interest, and pulled my head out of the ever-so-slightly-smug pat-on-the-back-aren’t-I-clever clouds came from Andy.

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Reflecting on the first week of story telling

This moment has been coming for a while now. Where I can look back on writing each day for a week.

  • I have shared: authentically, openly and consistently. As it should be.
  • Old friends have re-engaged: relationships are rekindling. Warming to my soul.
  • Strangers have introduced themselves: new friendships are emerging. The promise of new worlds.
  • I have challenged and developed my own thinking: interrogating and breaking down my preconceptions. This feels significant.
  • I have been called a dick: with a subsequent retraction. Thank you – you had a point!
  • I have been questioned about my intent: in a very gently way. Much appreciated – please don’t stop questioning.
  • I’ve been supported by the person closest to me: which means more than you can know x.

Stats this week: Views: 95 / Reads: 79 / Recommends: 6

Business founders: when to disrupt or innovate and when to stick with your vision

You’re an entrepreneur, so a few years ago you founded a company. Since then you’ve grown your team and now you make the big decisions. The pressure is on and you know you need to innovate and stay on your toes to succeed.

When you spot opportunities you pivot your team. And every opportunity is important.

I bring news from the trenches. It’s your responsibility to disrupt and innovate but do it in a measured way. Control the chaos.

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Hello, my name is Sam and I am a functioning procrastinator

Managing procrastination habits and getting the important things done

I am a functioning procrastinator. So I set myself goals in order to get things done. Or at least I will just as soon as I’ve checked out my twitter notifications…

Don’t judge me. I’m not alone in this. Sources confirm lots of us are procrastinators. Typically anywhere from 20% — 80%. Maybe you’re one. I mean, you’re reading this aren’t you?

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International Women’s Day and SXSWi 2016

Equality in digital, tech and the wider world

This time last year, Tom and I flew to SXSW Interactive. SXSWi (that’s what the cool kids call it), is a BIG deal in the world of digital, tech and interactive.

It’s one of the largest conferences of its kind. Over forty thousand people attended in 2015 from all over the world. Al Gore gave the keynote last year, and this year Barack Obama and Michelle Obama have the honour.

Today is International Women’s Day and I’m reminded of my favourite keynote speaker from SXSWi 2015: Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud. A fearless campaigner for the equal rights of women across Saudi Arabia and a highly authentic and compelling presenter.

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No to notifications

Habits form whether we like it or not.

If we’re careful, and work hard for long enough, habits can be wonderful: yoga each morning; planning important things for tomorrow; daily practice of the piano; times and spaces shared with the ones you love.

Other habits are more insidious. I’m looking at you automatic notifications.

Today I’m going to switch my phone to Pomodoro mode, I’ll close Slack, put the Android Wear watch in the drawer and close most of my Chrome tabs (including email).

Just thinking about this leaves me feeling both excited and a little bit anxious. The prospect of change often has this effect on me. Okay, okay … I’ll close ALL of my Chrome tabs.

I hope to learn the best and worst bits of trying this change on. And maybe I’ll make some of these changes into habits I choose.