Less, but better

I used to care a lot lesser about bandwidth a couple of years back. I had many little projects aside from a more than full time job – all of which were teaching me something – and I used to make sure I had activity filled days. I considered filling my days very important – not a moment wasted (literally).

I’ve taken the opposite approach since last year after a combination of thinking, reading, and prodding from a wiser friend. For instance, a big change has been not to touch any side projects except on the weekend (typically during the Sunday “inspiration projects” work day). This has meant complete free time to do what I want on weekday evenings (not that there is much time here) and a real day off on Saturdays when I can manage it.

The effect has been liberating – I have a lot more bandwidth now. As a result, I am able to think a lot more than I used to and thus able to balance my bias for action with some more thought. It also means I’m not in a hurry to get items off my “to do” list and am more relaxed in general. It has taught me to be accepting of the progress made on weekends on these projects – less but better is the mantra. Finally, it has necessitated a cut in the number of projects I have committed to. Focus is good.

Here’s to “less, but better.”