3 Minutes of TimeCrafting with Mike Vardy Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/three-minutes-of-timecrafting-with-mike-vardy 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting (3MoT for short) is a daily show where productivity and time management strategist Mike Vardy shares inspiration, insights, and information to help you craft your time better. Productivityist Productivity Services Inc. 2f4d6460-a3f3-51b6-8583-ee1818e5aa55 no en-ca Fri, 09 Feb 2024 12:11:03 -0800 Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:58:16 -0700 https:/ https://img.transistor.fm/INr38gZzQCptHoZTPBNV0akXJtZGkPaOy66N3HpwCsQ/rs:fill:3000:3000:1/q:60/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/Lzc1LzE1NTEwODYy/NTYtYXJ0d29yay5q/cGc.jpg 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting with Mike Vardy https:/ episodic Mike Vardy 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting (3MoT for short) is a daily show where productivity and time management strategist Mike Vardy shares inspiration, insights, and information to help you craft your time better. 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting (3MoT for short) is a daily show where productivity and time management strategist Mike Vardy shares inspiration, insights, and information to help you craft your time better.. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus Productivityist Productivity Services Inc. Yes No On Finishing 153 153 On Finishing full 0a55ab80-e11c-44dc-b90d-d5eee2720e44 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8ca6d4c This is the final episode of 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting so I'm discussing the subject of finishing. Why I'm finishing the run of #3MoT and what you and I can do to keep this podcast going even after it's finished.

]]> This is the final episode of 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting so I'm discussing the subject of finishing. Why I'm finishing the run of #3MoT and what you and I can do to keep this podcast going even after it's finished.

]]> Fri, 23 Aug 2019 15:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 "It ain't over 'til it's over." - Yogi Berra "It ain't over 'til it's over." - Yogi Berra time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Smallness 152 152 On Smallness full 9c4243c5-23df-4d05-8cdb-c8131868f42b https://share.transistor.fm/s/1c67f666 On this episode of the show I dig into the details of going small and why going small can help you out with your bigger personal productivity picture.

]]> On this episode of the show I dig into the details of going small and why going small can help you out with your bigger personal productivity picture.

]]> Sat, 10 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I've been known to throw around the following phrase when putting together a to do list: break down your projects into their smallest particles. I've been known to throw around the following phrase when putting together a to do list: break down your projects into their smallest particles. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Letting Go 151 151 On Letting Go full f7fd2f1a-7785-492b-9b50-d4cfd2070fdf https://share.transistor.fm/s/72fa3cb6 On this episode of #3MoT I discuss letting go of things on your to do list that no longer serve you and why it's important for you to do so.

You can pick up a copy of Pat Flynn's Let Go here. Better still, preorder a copy of his new book, Superfans, here.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I discuss letting go of things on your to do list that no longer serve you and why it's important for you to do so.

You can pick up a copy of Pat Flynn's Let Go here. Better still, preorder a copy of his new book, Superfans, here.

]]> Fri, 09 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 "The hardest part of love is letting go." - lyrics from Letting Go by Straight Lines "The hardest part of love is letting go." - lyrics from Letting Go by Straight Lines time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Positivity 150 150 On Positivity full d7800891-e786-44a7-9eb5-7ea48b47cad0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9d1b0adc On this episode of the program I share the two ways you can take positivity and apply it to your to do list – and how you can leverage both of those ways to keep you moving the things you really need and want to do forward.

You can check out the Gary Vaynerchuk shoes I "almost" purchased here.

]]> On this episode of the program I share the two ways you can take positivity and apply it to your to do list – and how you can leverage both of those ways to keep you moving the things you really need and want to do forward.

You can check out the Gary Vaynerchuk shoes I "almost" purchased here.

]]> Thu, 08 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 There are two ways to apply the concept of positivity to your personal productivity and time management. Both work in different ways. There are two ways to apply the concept of positivity to your personal productivity and time management. Both work in different ways. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Appreciation 149 149 On Appreciation full c755703b-3ac5-4cab-8798-778b623012c4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f9568988 On this episode of the podcast I discuss the role that showing appreciation in your day – for both the successes and failures – can play a positive role ion how you treat your time.

Check out my friend Karl Staib's initiative, Bring Gratitude.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I discuss the role that showing appreciation in your day – for both the successes and failures – can play a positive role ion how you treat your time.

Check out my friend Karl Staib's initiative, Bring Gratitude.

]]> Wed, 07 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 You'll often hear about gratitude and how it can play a big role in improving your outlook on your day, week, and beyond. I'd also throw some appreciation into the mix a little more often. You'll often hear about gratitude and how it can play a big role in improving your outlook on your day, week, and beyond. I'd also throw some appreciation into the mix a little more often. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Breaks 148 148 On Breaks full 4c6686d6-bd59-420a-9947-8c522ba51712 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4582695f Breaks are crucial components of your personal productivity, whether you want to recognize that or not. On this episode of the podcast I'll dig into why you need to take them, no matter how long or short they may need to be.

]]> Breaks are crucial components of your personal productivity, whether you want to recognize that or not. On this episode of the podcast I'll dig into why you need to take them, no matter how long or short they may need to be.

]]> Tue, 06 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 After an extended break from the daily podcast grind, I decided to kick off the return of the podcast with a focus on the subject of taking breaks. After an extended break from the daily podcast grind, I decided to kick off the return of the podcast with a focus on the subject of taking breaks. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On World Productivity Day 147 147 On World Productivity Day full c3cff262-9f21-42c9-b4d0-02804e1cd0f9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6d66459c On this episode of the show I explain why today is known as World Productivity Day and offer a few suggestions on how you can celebrate it.

]]> On this episode of the show I explain why today is known as World Productivity Day and offer a few suggestions on how you can celebrate it.

]]> Thu, 20 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Today is World Productivity Day. Seems like an odd day to carry that distinction, doesn't it? Today is World Productivity Day. Seems like an odd day to carry that distinction, doesn't it? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Sauntering 146 146 On Sauntering full e94467ef-0b29-4305-8157-0190925bb9ef https://share.transistor.fm/s/1fd8a18e On this episode of #3MoT I share with you the productivity benefits of sauntering every once in a while.

You can check out the episode of The Productivityist Podcast featuring Rob Walker here.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I share with you the productivity benefits of sauntering every once in a while.

You can check out the episode of The Productivityist Podcast featuring Rob Walker here.

]]> Wed, 19 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 The definition of "saunter" is as follows: to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner. But sauntering doesn't necessarily mean you're not being productive. The definition of "saunter" is as follows: to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner. But sauntering doesn't necessarily mean you're not being productive. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Momentous Occasions 145 145 On Momentous Occasions full f0e5ba54-ebfe-426e-b802-0000e304004a https://share.transistor.fm/s/bd53af05 On this episode of the podcast, I want to share with you how you can recognize more momentous occasions and how looking back at them will help you with your productivity going forward.

]]> On this episode of the podcast, I want to share with you how you can recognize more momentous occasions and how looking back at them will help you with your productivity going forward.

]]> Tue, 18 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 We have more momentous occasions in our lives than we think. What we need is a way to remind ourselves of them; those reminders will help us craft a life teeming with occasions that are momentous in nature. We have more momentous occasions in our lives than we think. What we need is a way to remind ourselves of them; those reminders will help us craft a life teeming with occasions that are momentous in nature. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Permanence 144 144 On Permanence full 7a1efb74-636a-4a35-99af-bea88af2324e https://share.transistor.fm/s/a375d09b On this episode of #3MoT I draw attention to the idea of dealing with what tends to have permanence over what is temporary or fleeting and how that can help you greatly in your pursuit for better personal productivity.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I draw attention to the idea of dealing with what tends to have permanence over what is temporary or fleeting and how that can help you greatly in your pursuit for better personal productivity.

]]> Mon, 17 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 "Focus on the things that don't change." - Jeff Bezos "Focus on the things that don't change." - Jeff Bezos time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Musing Mode 143 143 On Musing Mode full 7d07af28-b0a5-46ed-a090-c804c7f31561 https://share.transistor.fm/s/82a4b2e7 I explain what I mean by "musing" and what tasks fall into that modality, why I've chosen it to be the first of my Horizontal Themes for each day, and why it's an essential part of my daily routine.

]]> I explain what I mean by "musing" and what tasks fall into that modality, why I've chosen it to be the first of my Horizontal Themes for each day, and why it's an essential part of my daily routine.

]]> Sun, 16 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 As the mini-series on Horizontal Themes wraps up, I wanted to offer up my thoughts on another one of my less specific themes: Musing Mode. As the mini-series on Horizontal Themes wraps up, I wanted to offer up my thoughts on another one of my less specific themes: Musing Mode. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Movement Mode 142 142 On Movement Mode full 0b4398f9-5d46-42ae-98c2-77b2c8061e7f https://share.transistor.fm/s/015e1e6d On this episode of #3MoT I explain why I needed to bring this Horizontal Theme into the mix and why it may very well be one that you should add to your calendar as well.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I explain why I needed to bring this Horizontal Theme into the mix and why it may very well be one that you should add to your calendar as well.

]]> Sat, 15 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 As I continue through this mini-series on Horizontal Themes I want to share with you the newest of the bunch: Movement mode. As I continue through this mini-series on Horizontal Themes I want to share with you the newest of the bunch: Movement mode. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Making Mode 141 141 On Making Mode full 071b2057-fd14-4e3c-8354-2620cb7a7f57 https://share.transistor.fm/s/336edbb8 I share why this theme works for me and how it actually feeds off of my Daily Themes despite the fact that it has the power to override them.

]]> I share why this theme works for me and how it actually feeds off of my Daily Themes despite the fact that it has the power to override them.

]]> Fri, 14 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I continue with the mini-series on Horizontal Themes by focusing attention on one of my most important ones: Making Mode. I continue with the mini-series on Horizontal Themes by focusing attention on one of my most important ones: Making Mode. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Maintaining Mode 140 140 On Maintaining Mode full 0d19eba2-40d1-4f3f-b64c-ebc4a9f8b27d https://share.transistor.fm/s/240e3103 On this episode I discuss what "maintaining mode" is, when I schedule time to work on the tasks that fall into that category daily, and how much time I dedicate to this Horizontal Theme each day.

]]> On this episode I discuss what "maintaining mode" is, when I schedule time to work on the tasks that fall into that category daily, and how much time I dedicate to this Horizontal Theme each day.

]]> Thu, 13 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In this first episode of the mini-series on Horizontal Themes, I share with you the one that really started off the overall concept: Maintaining Mode. In this first episode of the mini-series on Horizontal Themes, I share with you the one that really started off the overall concept: Maintaining Mode. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Horizontal Themes 139 139 On Horizontal Themes full 89a14b33-8cf5-46f3-8890-1b7cb0dd7dbc https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa2ac227 Today I'm going to give you brief primer on what Horizontal Themes are (and what they aren't) and the basic concepts behind them. Then over the next four episodes I'll share with you the ones I use and why I use them. 

]]> Today I'm going to give you brief primer on what Horizontal Themes are (and what they aren't) and the basic concepts behind them. Then over the next four episodes I'll share with you the ones I use and why I use them. 

]]> Wed, 12 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 I've decided to fire up another mini-series here on 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting that revolves one of the core elements of TimeCrafting: Horizontal Themes. I've decided to fire up another mini-series here on 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting that revolves one of the core elements of TimeCrafting: Horizontal Themes. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On The Phone 138 138 On The Phone full 43596c71-4c41-4fe8-8ded-708e0ae1d5b7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dca6ba34 Today on #3MoT I talk about how you can use your mobile phone and still keep your personal productivity and attention before you had a smartphone intact (or as close to intact as possible).

]]> Today on #3MoT I talk about how you can use your mobile phone and still keep your personal productivity and attention before you had a smartphone intact (or as close to intact as possible).

]]> Tue, 11 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 The mobile phone has played a massive role in personal productivity over the years and its impact shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. The mobile phone has played a massive role in personal productivity over the years and its impact shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Audiobooks 137 137 On Audiobooks full a6f93584-f0c4-4b8c-9473-07fafb6bd709 https://share.transistor.fm/s/497cb25b On this episode of #3MoT I discuss what I do (and don't do) when I listen to audio books and encourage you to try one scenario in particular.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I discuss what I do (and don't do) when I listen to audio books and encourage you to try one scenario in particular.

]]> Mon, 10 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I enjoy listening to audiobooks. I tend to listen to fiction books and reserve my non-fiction listening to podcasts. I enjoy listening to audiobooks. I tend to listen to fiction books and reserve my non-fiction listening to podcasts. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Avoidance 136 136 On Avoidance full 0da5a7ab-9404-4c5a-816d-7216f6ef2b18 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2479bcc1 That's right – avoidance is something everyone deals with from time to time. I spend time this episode discussing avoidance and how you can, er, avoid letting it get the better of your productivity – and you.

]]> That's right – avoidance is something everyone deals with from time to time. I spend time this episode discussing avoidance and how you can, er, avoid letting it get the better of your productivity – and you.

]]> Sun, 09 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 This is a fitting episode for today. Why? Because I was supposed to record it a few days ago...but I avoided doing so. This is a fitting episode for today. Why? Because I was supposed to record it a few days ago...but I avoided doing so. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Friendship 135 135 On Friendship full 783aef36-e50a-4c81-aa14-55bddb687b5c https://share.transistor.fm/s/b3542c48 On this episode of the podcast I discuss how important friendships are to how you craft your time and why finding th best way for you to focus on friendships is something that you need to give your attention.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I discuss how important friendships are to how you craft your time and why finding th best way for you to focus on friendships is something that you need to give your attention.

]]> Sat, 08 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 You wouldn’t think that friendship plays that big of a role in your personal productivity, would you? If that’s the case, you’d be wrong. You wouldn’t think that friendship plays that big of a role in your personal productivity, would you? If that’s the case, you’d be wrong. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Recording 134 134 On Recording full fe90af8e-aaeb-4a1a-901e-4d807b4a348b https://share.transistor.fm/s/bdc9b04f On this episode of the show I devote attention to the concept of recording. I explain the origin of the word, why knowing its origin can help you understand how important it is that you focus on consciously recording, and how giving attention on that will help you with your productivity and prioritization.

]]> On this episode of the show I devote attention to the concept of recording. I explain the origin of the word, why knowing its origin can help you understand how important it is that you focus on consciously recording, and how giving attention on that will help you with your productivity and prioritization.

]]> Fri, 07 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Recording things is something that we do both consciously and unconsciously. But if you want it to really benefit you then you need to spend more time doing it deliberately. Recording things is something that we do both consciously and unconsciously. But if you want it to really benefit you then you need to spend more time doing it deliberately. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Ups and Downs 133 133 On Ups and Downs full ef201b9a-6d9a-4e72-a1f5-e4ff80e2b5c4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/efa8c7cd On this episode of the podcast I share my insights on how to make your way through the peaks and valleys in your work and personal life. And I also explain how learning to do that will greatly help you with your personal productivity.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I share my insights on how to make your way through the peaks and valleys in your work and personal life. And I also explain how learning to do that will greatly help you with your personal productivity.

]]> Thu, 06 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Life is full of ups and downs. That's inevitable. What we need to work on is how to navigate them. Life is full of ups and downs. That's inevitable. What we need to work on is how to navigate them. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Running 132 132 On Running full df46c2f5-9588-488a-b8e4-8a80812b7a62 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0efa07ac On this episode of the show I discuss exactly that: how my becoming a runner has impacted my productivity…and so much more.

]]> On this episode of the show I discuss exactly that: how my becoming a runner has impacted my productivity…and so much more.

]]> Wed, 05 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 I started running in mid-2018. And I haven't really stopped since. But what does that have to do with personal productivity and time management? I started running in mid-2018. And I haven't really stopped since. But what does that have to do with personal productivity and time management? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Tailoring 131 131 On Tailoring full f647ea9d-70e6-4a4a-b7dd-faabd71a0580 https://share.transistor.fm/s/12f82f61 On this episode of the show I share my insights on adopting and adapting productivity practices for your own use and why you must tailor them to your own wants and needs.

]]> On this episode of the show I share my insights on adopting and adapting productivity practices for your own use and why you must tailor them to your own wants and needs.

]]> Tue, 04 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Even when business isn't personal, productivity always is. Even when business isn't personal, productivity always is. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Repetition 130 130 On Repetition full 3c1ea703-78b7-43a0-beb6-0ed52129062a https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7f20e0c TimeCrafting's key elements are built on the concept of repetition so I wanted to share my thoughts and ideas on how repetition can affect your ability to pay better attention to your intentions and get more of the right things done. I do that in this episode of #3MoT – an episode that I believe will be an episode that is worth a repeat listen.

]]> TimeCrafting's key elements are built on the concept of repetition so I wanted to share my thoughts and ideas on how repetition can affect your ability to pay better attention to your intentions and get more of the right things done. I do that in this episode of #3MoT – an episode that I believe will be an episode that is worth a repeat listen.

]]> Mon, 03 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 "Repetition of the same thought or physical action develops into a habit which, repeated frequently enough, becomes an automatic reflex." - Norman Vincent Peale "Repetition of the same thought or physical action develops into a habit which, repeated frequently enough, becomes an automatic reflex." - Norman Vincent Peale time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Rocky Starts 129 129 On Rocky Starts full 7a89b155-9b73-4a6f-aada-d8764d99fff7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e726bbd4 Today I want to get a bit more personal with you about my own rocky starts, what I believe causes a rocky start, and how to avoid rocky starts whenever you can.

]]> Today I want to get a bit more personal with you about my own rocky starts, what I believe causes a rocky start, and how to avoid rocky starts whenever you can.

]]> Sun, 02 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 I've found that several of the starts I've had in the past several months have been nothing short of rocky. I've found that several of the starts I've had in the past several months have been nothing short of rocky. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Niceness 128 128 On Niceness full ace85e3d-7fe2-4477-8d08-57cbd7b178c6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/eaa4d9eb I keep with the etymology theme on this episode as I talk about the word "nice" and the idea of niceness. I'm not going to give too much more away here than that because that wouldn't be very...nice.

]]> I keep with the etymology theme on this episode as I talk about the word "nice" and the idea of niceness. I'm not going to give too much more away here than that because that wouldn't be very...nice.

]]> Sat, 01 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 What does the word "nice" mean to you? What kind of feelings does it bring up? Does the word have enough depth in it to have meaning for you? What does the word "nice" mean to you? What kind of feelings does it bring up? Does the word have enough depth in it to have meaning for you? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Refusals 127 127 On Refusals full 67b9635d-aac9-4f9d-b875-959ce52fe879 https://share.transistor.fm/s/97ba2455 On this episode of the podcast I spend more time exploring etymology and the power of words with one that can add more meaning to your "no" and help you create sounder boundaries in the process.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I spend more time exploring etymology and the power of words with one that can add more meaning to your "no" and help you create sounder boundaries in the process.

]]> Fri, 31 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 You've likely heard that there is a real power in the word "no." But what if you were to take that power to another level? You've likely heard that there is a real power in the word "no." But what if you were to take that power to another level? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Flourishing 126 126 On Flourishing full a12dfd6e-c067-4109-9261-008cbc47707f https://share.transistor.fm/s/e84383bb On this episode of #3MoT I discuss the idea of incorporating the word "flourish" into your personal productivity and time management. I share why I believe adding the word to your vocabulary will have a greater impact on your work and your life.

You can check out my friend Charlie Gilkey's Productive Flourishing website here.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I discuss the idea of incorporating the word "flourish" into your personal productivity and time management. I share why I believe adding the word to your vocabulary will have a greater impact on your work and your life.

You can check out my friend Charlie Gilkey's Productive Flourishing website here.

]]> Thu, 30 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 178 When you think about the word "flourish" what words come to mind? Do you have a clear idea of what the word means? When you think about the word "flourish" what words come to mind? Do you have a clear idea of what the word means? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Aging Tasks 125 125 On Aging Tasks full b0886988-19d3-4b23-b3ac-a00a3ca1b705 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6068f927 On this episode of the show I offer up strategies on how to take care of aging tasks, including those pesky emails that have a tendency to linger in your inbox longer than they should

]]> On this episode of the show I offer up strategies on how to take care of aging tasks, including those pesky emails that have a tendency to linger in your inbox longer than they should

]]> Wed, 29 May 2019 15:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Take a look at your to do list. How many tasks on it have been there for a long time? Why are they still on it? How come you haven't taken care of those aging tasks? Take a look at your to do list. How many tasks on it have been there for a long time? Why are they still on it? How come you haven't taken care of those aging tasks? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Attention Hygiene 124 124 On Attention Hygiene full 68d6fbf5-85be-4d19-aa49-154e400b1115 https://share.transistor.fm/s/406bc13f On this episode of #3MoT, I talk about a blog post from my friend Kourosh Dini discussing the concept of "attention hygiene" and why it's something that we should give our – wait for it – attention.

You can read the blog post here.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT, I talk about a blog post from my friend Kourosh Dini discussing the concept of "attention hygiene" and why it's something that we should give our – wait for it – attention.

You can read the blog post here.

]]> Tue, 28 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Attention is one of the key ingredients to personal productivity and giving you the best chance to craft your time well. Attention is one of the key ingredients to personal productivity and giving you the best chance to craft your time well. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Fixing Things 123 123 On Fixing Things full 84a5b95b-7c4e-48b5-af6e-81c7e4e1def3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0f58035f On this episode of the podcast I discuss the subject of fixing things and how it plays a role in your personal productivity. (I also reveal how much time I spend fixing things and what I can fix and what I don’t.)

]]> On this episode of the podcast I discuss the subject of fixing things and how it plays a role in your personal productivity. (I also reveal how much time I spend fixing things and what I can fix and what I don’t.)

]]> Mon, 27 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 One aspect of optimization - which is one of my daily themes - is fixing. But sometimes you can spend time fixing when you should instead be figuring out if the fix is even worth it. One aspect of optimization - which is one of my daily themes - is fixing. But sometimes you can spend time fixing when you should instead be figuring out if the fix is even worth it. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Speed 122 122 On Speed full 370268dd-2e08-4630-80e3-771d75b89b82 https://share.transistor.fm/s/77957f54 On this episode of #3MoT I focus on the role that speed plays in personal productivity and time management andwhy it should be the thing that concerns you the least instead of the most.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I focus on the role that speed plays in personal productivity and time management andwhy it should be the thing that concerns you the least instead of the most.

]]> Sun, 26 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Here’s the thing: efficiency isn’t solely about speed. I’d argue that speed is what you need to keep out of your mind as you work to become more efficient with your to do list. Here’s the thing: efficiency isn’t solely about speed. I’d argue that speed is what you need to keep out of your mind as you work to become more efficient with your to do list. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Pride 121 121 On Pride full 3346e29f-7083-4b3f-bf35-e5c00c2127ce https://share.transistor.fm/s/c4aa88a2 On this episode of the podcast I talk about how pride can derail your ability to craft your time in a way that doesn’t serve you...but also when pride can work in your favour.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I talk about how pride can derail your ability to craft your time in a way that doesn’t serve you...but also when pride can work in your favour.

]]> Sat, 25 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 “Pride makes us artificial and humility makes us real.” - Thomas Merton “Pride makes us artificial and humility makes us real.” - Thomas Merton time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Protection 120 120 On Protection full de79d60f-0286-474f-b660-07122a32733f https://share.transistor.fm/s/db2bb2ee I'm going to share with you some ways to protect both your time and attention on this episode of the podcast.

(Spoiler alert: One of the things you need to protect them from is yourself. You can learn what I mean by that once you hit "play" on your podcast player of choice.)

]]> I'm going to share with you some ways to protect both your time and attention on this episode of the podcast.

(Spoiler alert: One of the things you need to protect them from is yourself. You can learn what I mean by that once you hit "play" on your podcast player of choice.)

]]> Fri, 24 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In order to craft your time and ensure you can handle the things you need and want to do on a consistent basis, you need to protect your time and attention. In order to craft your time and ensure you can handle the things you need and want to do on a consistent basis, you need to protect your time and attention. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Slowness 119 119 On Slowness full f2c88233-e4df-44d7-ae8a-27655b2ab96d https://share.transistor.fm/s/6a5931c0 On this episode of #3MoT I slow things down a bit to discuss the benefits of doing some of your intentions – the things you need and want to do – slowly.

Want to watch my TEDxVictoria talk? You can do that here. And you can listen to Carl Honoré's appearance on The Productivityist Podcast here.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I slow things down a bit to discuss the benefits of doing some of your intentions – the things you need and want to do – slowly.

Want to watch my TEDxVictoria talk? You can do that here. And you can listen to Carl Honoré's appearance on The Productivityist Podcast here.

]]> Thu, 23 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 "Slow and steady wins the race." - The Tortoise and The Hare "Slow and steady wins the race." - The Tortoise and The Hare time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Standing Out 118 118 On Standing Out full 57ac86d5-b5c6-42ac-af6c-871f2ab36d4e https://share.transistor.fm/s/0de386cf On this episode of #3MoT I share my thoughts on how you can stand out from others in the best way possible – and how to keep yourself from doing so in a way that works against you.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I share my thoughts on how you can stand out from others in the best way possible – and how to keep yourself from doing so in a way that works against you.

]]> Wed, 22 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 There are plenty of ways that you can try to stand out from others. The question is...in what way do you want to be standing out? There are plenty of ways that you can try to stand out from others. The question is...in what way do you want to be standing out? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Notebooks 117 117 On Notebooks full 0e23f0bf-7ee4-4f94-bfe0-bc5d75d147e5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/97955d10 On this episode of the podcast I share some tips and tricks that I use to make my notebooks work better for me and how you can do similar things to make them work better for you too.

Check out my post on The Strikethrough System here.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I share some tips and tricks that I use to make my notebooks work better for me and how you can do similar things to make them work better for you too.

Check out my post on The Strikethrough System here.

]]> Tue, 21 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 If you’ve been keeping up with me fo some time then you know that I have an affinity for notebooks. If you’ve been keeping up with me fo some time then you know that I have an affinity for notebooks. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Measuring 116 116 On Measuring full 90122ec9-7845-4b8d-b5ce-e71a99e0deb7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cc5f5de8 On this episode of #3MoT I talk about how measuring things - your time and your tasks - can impact your productivity and how you treat your to do list. (Spoiler Alert: It can have a negative impact if not done right.)

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I talk about how measuring things - your time and your tasks - can impact your productivity and how you treat your to do list. (Spoiler Alert: It can have a negative impact if not done right.)

]]> Mon, 20 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 “The hours of folly are measured by the clock; but of wisdom, no clock can measure.” - William Blake “The hours of folly are measured by the clock; but of wisdom, no clock can measure.” - William Blake time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Seasons 115 115 On Seasons full da44e8a5-04a4-42be-86ba-7f1958487dd8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e3d53840 Further to that, what about YOUR seasons in YOUR year? I touch on that idea and how leveraging seasons can benefit your personal productivity and ability to craft your time on this episode of the show.

]]> Further to that, what about YOUR seasons in YOUR year? I touch on that idea and how leveraging seasons can benefit your personal productivity and ability to craft your time on this episode of the show.

]]> Sun, 19 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 When we think about managing our time, we often think about the days, the weeks, and months. But what about the seasons of the year? When we think about managing our time, we often think about the days, the weeks, and months. But what about the seasons of the year? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Deep Work 114 114 On Deep Work full 6aadf06e-33e0-471f-9fe4-7601de02649f https://share.transistor.fm/s/6541714b I take every Friday as a day to give my overarching focus to deep work. On this episode of #3MoT I share with you what I believe falls into the modality of deep work and why it matters that you give your version of deep work plenty of attention.

]]> I take every Friday as a day to give my overarching focus to deep work. On this episode of #3MoT I share with you what I believe falls into the modality of deep work and why it matters that you give your version of deep work plenty of attention.

]]> Sat, 18 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 “What we choose to focus on and what we choose to ignore—plays in defining the quality of our life.” - Cal Newport, Deep Work “What we choose to focus on and what we choose to ignore—plays in defining the quality of our life.” - Cal Newport, Deep Work time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Changing Gears 113 113 On Changing Gears full 2034d1b3-c788-4e30-94a8-4ab44d3721bb https://share.transistor.fm/s/e14e4d3c On this episode of #3MoT I share my insights on changing gears. I discuss how I've found a way to do it effectively and what you can integrate into your life to help you do the same.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I share my insights on changing gears. I discuss how I've found a way to do it effectively and what you can integrate into your life to help you do the same.

]]> Fri, 17 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 There's no question about it: in life you're going to need and want to change gears from time to time. But how do you do it in a way that doesn't throw you off course in the process? There's no question about it: in life you're going to need and want to change gears from time to time. But how do you do it in a way that doesn't throw you off course in the process? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Waiting 112 112 On Waiting full 69cc9746-bdad-4ca6-a96e-c80f8e1e5af2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e440fe35 On this episode I talk about why leaving tasks on your to do list as “waiting” can be a recipe for productivity pain and what you should do instead that will allow you to be more assertive with tasks where you’re waiting on others before you can move forward.

]]> On this episode I talk about why leaving tasks on your to do list as “waiting” can be a recipe for productivity pain and what you should do instead that will allow you to be more assertive with tasks where you’re waiting on others before you can move forward.

]]> Thu, 16 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 ‘The waiting is the hardest part.’ - Tom Petty ‘The waiting is the hardest part.’ - Tom Petty time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Meditation 111 111 On Meditation full 9070e99c-d61f-432d-bfd0-7bade7823e47 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7b638d08 On this episode of the podcast, I talk about my experience with meditation, what meditation can be for you, and what we can all do to be more consistent with a meditation practice.

]]> On this episode of the podcast, I talk about my experience with meditation, what meditation can be for you, and what we can all do to be more consistent with a meditation practice.

]]> Wed, 15 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I’ve gone back and forth with meditation over the years. Not on that it should be done, but that I’ve struggled to be consistent with it. I’ve gone back and forth with meditation over the years. Not on that it should be done, but that I’ve struggled to be consistent with it. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Quality 110 110 On Quality full ea12fa4f-4bb6-45d3-a71f-3245192ef381 https://share.transistor.fm/s/44e543b7 On this episode of #3MoT I piggyback off of my previous episode (On Quantity) and spend time discussing the importance of quality when it comes to your efforts in personal productivity and time management.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I piggyback off of my previous episode (On Quantity) and spend time discussing the importance of quality when it comes to your efforts in personal productivity and time management.

]]> Tue, 14 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 It's not always about how much you do, but about the quality of what you do. Yet sometimes quality can suffer in the face of the demands we have from outside forces...and place on ourselves. It's not always about how much you do, but about the quality of what you do. Yet sometimes quality can suffer in the face of the demands we have from outside forces...and place on ourselves. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Quantity 109 109 On Quantity full 7c93736c-7237-4cd5-aeec-bfef70fc56ab https://share.transistor.fm/s/62d00cb4 On this episode of the podcast I explore the idea of quantity when it comes to your to do list and overall personal productivity and time management. I talk about why having more on your agenda, even though it's seemingly unconventional, might actually help you do less things better.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I explore the idea of quantity when it comes to your to do list and overall personal productivity and time management. I talk about why having more on your agenda, even though it's seemingly unconventional, might actually help you do less things better.

]]> Mon, 13 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 There's this idea out there that you should do less stuff better. But what if doing that meant you actually had to add MORE to your to do list first? There's this idea out there that you should do less stuff better. But what if doing that meant you actually had to add MORE to your to do list first? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Longevity 108 108 On Longevity full db75a224-ba75-4692-994b-a56e5911b6eb https://share.transistor.fm/s/d00ef74e On this episode of 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting I discuss my thoughts on building a framework that can stand the test of time and why it's crucial that you put one in place to promote crafting your time beyond just today.

]]> On this episode of 3 Minutes of TimeCrafting I discuss my thoughts on building a framework that can stand the test of time and why it's crucial that you put one in place to promote crafting your time beyond just today.

]]> Sun, 12 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Sometimes you just want to get through today. But you need to make sure you have a way to get through every day after that as well. Sometimes you just want to get through today. But you need to make sure you have a way to get through every day after that as well. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Ego 107 107 On Ego full f9a95a44-aa4f-490f-8cc2-c3d647a81b4e https://share.transistor.fm/s/0467549f On this episode of #3MoT I discuss some of what Holiday put in his book "Ego is the Enemy" and how the ego can affect your ability to lead your time in a way that promotes progress.


“You’re not as good as you think. You don’t have it all figured out. Stay focused. Do better.”  - Ryan Holiday  ]]> On this episode of #3MoT I discuss some of what Holiday put in his book "Ego is the Enemy" and how the ego can affect your ability to lead your time in a way that promotes progress.


“You’re not as good as you think. You don’t have it all figured out. Stay focused. Do better.”  - Ryan Holiday  ]]> Sat, 11 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Ego can get in the way of progress. In fact, as Ryan Holiday says it can be an enemy of that...and much more. Ego can get in the way of progress. In fact, as Ryan Holiday says it can be an enemy of that...and much more. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Rest 106 106 On Rest full 94575a83-8a1c-4b6e-a847-e53d6f671b15 https://share.transistor.fm/s/883d27e7 On this episode of #3MoT, I discuss why rest is crucial to your personal productivity, why steering clear of rest periods can actually be counterproductive, and where you can find space for short and long rests throughout your day.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT, I discuss why rest is crucial to your personal productivity, why steering clear of rest periods can actually be counterproductive, and where you can find space for short and long rests throughout your day.

]]> Fri, 10 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Without rest and recuperation, you're going to be spinning your wheels. And that will take you nowhere...fast. Without rest and recuperation, you're going to be spinning your wheels. And that will take you nowhere...fast. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Teaching 105 105 On Teaching full a4563e67-df27-4cf5-9bba-2d8c470614ab https://share.transistor.fm/s/61a97992 On this episode of #3MoT I explain why I dedicate the overarching focus of one of days to Learning and how that makes me better at teaching – something I never thought I'd be able to do well.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I explain why I dedicate the overarching focus of one of days to Learning and how that makes me better at teaching – something I never thought I'd be able to do well.

]]> Thu, 09 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Stephen Covey said, "I believe in this concept that you learn by teaching." You know what? I believe in that concept as well. And I also believe that it's important to make and take time for teaching. Stephen Covey said, "I believe in this concept that you learn by teaching." You know what? I believe in that concept as well. And I also believe that it's important to make and take time for teaching. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Being A Night Owl 104 104 On Being A Night Owl full 7049040d-b2c9-4501-a64e-d50c1bbf1b32 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2119d5c1 On this episode of #3MoT I talk about why being a night owl is just fine and why you should listen to your body clock instead of fighting it.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I talk about why being a night owl is just fine and why you should listen to your body clock instead of fighting it.

]]> Wed, 08 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I'm a night owl and I'm proud of it. If you're a night owl then you should be too. I'm a night owl and I'm proud of it. If you're a night owl then you should be too. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Breathing 103 103 On Breathing full b9881fff-313e-4812-a7eb-732744c4c792 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b9a9b6d5 Today on #3MoT I speak to the importance taking time to breathe.

]]> Today on #3MoT I speak to the importance taking time to breathe.

]]> Tue, 07 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 There are plenty of productivity tips you'll hear coming from me and many others. But there's one thing you can do that requires no additional tools and is something you already take for granted. There are plenty of productivity tips you'll hear coming from me and many others. But there's one thing you can do that requires no additional tools and is something you already take for granted. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Making From Scratch 102 102 On Making From Scratch full c2530ae3-33b2-439a-a16b-cb4254043b2b https://share.transistor.fm/s/f6d7f889 So I'm going to do that. I expand my thought on integrity and how the idea of making everything from scratch can overwhelm you to the point where integrity can be compromised.

]]> So I'm going to do that. I expand my thought on integrity and how the idea of making everything from scratch can overwhelm you to the point where integrity can be compromised.

]]> Mon, 06 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 While I'm not entirely done with my discussion on integrity yet, I want to draw the association between that and making things from scratch to the forefront on this episode. While I'm not entirely done with my discussion on integrity yet, I want to draw the association between that and making things from scratch to the forefront on this episode. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Integrity 101 101 On Integrity full b6502322-4be1-4f0d-afa3-24d9f715e0e6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/451f1f38 I'm more vulnerable than usual on this episode as I speak to the role of integrity in your life, on your to do list, and how I'm trying to bring more focus and attention to what I need to do to keep integrity at top of mind.

Click here to read the piece by Adam Grant that I mention during this episode.

]]> I'm more vulnerable than usual on this episode as I speak to the role of integrity in your life, on your to do list, and how I'm trying to bring more focus and attention to what I need to do to keep integrity at top of mind.

Click here to read the piece by Adam Grant that I mention during this episode.

]]> Sun, 05 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 "With integrity, you have nothing to fear, since you have nothing to hide. With integrity, you will do the right thing, so you will have no guilt." - Zig Ziglar "With integrity, you have nothing to fear, since you have nothing to hide. With integrity, you will do the right thing, so you will have no guilt." - Zig Ziglar time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Tradition 100 100 On Tradition full e1c46110-bcc1-416a-af98-e8d42ddd6732 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a66220f On this episode #3MoT I share my thoughts on how tradition can play both sides of things and the key to allow traditions to help rather than do harm to you and your ability to give attention to your intentions.

]]> On this episode #3MoT I share my thoughts on how tradition can play both sides of things and the key to allow traditions to help rather than do harm to you and your ability to give attention to your intentions.

]]> Sat, 04 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Traditions can work both in your favour and against you – kind of like how The Force has both a light and dark side. Traditions can work both in your favour and against you – kind of like how The Force has both a light and dark side. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Invisible Tasks 99 99 On Invisible Tasks full f41933b0-575e-44f7-bda6-5dd53a0b5d31 https://share.transistor.fm/s/07d16bfb Invisible tasks can be problematic because the only person that makes them invisible is you. On this episode of #3MoT I drive home the importance of making invisible tasks visible so that you can make sure none of them slip through the cracks.

]]> Invisible tasks can be problematic because the only person that makes them invisible is you. On this episode of #3MoT I drive home the importance of making invisible tasks visible so that you can make sure none of them slip through the cracks.

]]> Fri, 03 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I've spoken about "hidden tasks" before but there's a subset of hidden tasks that can be especially deceiving...and dangerous to your productivity and progress. I've spoken about "hidden tasks" before but there's a subset of hidden tasks that can be especially deceiving...and dangerous to your productivity and progress. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Proactivity 98 98 On Proactivity full 84ec4db4-d30f-40c8-a845-dc3ce00439e8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5de49f3a On this episode of #3MoT I decided to discuss the word that can help you with your overall priority, attention, and time management – proactivity.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I decided to discuss the word that can help you with your overall priority, attention, and time management – proactivity.

]]> Thu, 02 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 The word "productivity" starts with the same three letters as two words that can impact it: proactivity and procrastination. The word "productivity" starts with the same three letters as two words that can impact it: proactivity and procrastination. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Help 97 97 On Help full 87afc7a4-82c5-4705-b217-7abdece4e366 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5b88a2d1 The first of May is commonly known as "May Day" - a term used when someone is in distress and needs help. On this episode of #3MoT I share some insights on how to get out of your own way when someone asks if you need help and how to get the help you need with your tasks and projects when you really need it.

]]> The first of May is commonly known as "May Day" - a term used when someone is in distress and needs help. On this episode of #3MoT I share some insights on how to get out of your own way when someone asks if you need help and how to get the help you need with your tasks and projects when you really need it.

]]> Wed, 01 May 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 The first of May is upon us and while that may mean one thing for fans of Jonathan Coulton (Google his name with the search term "first of May" to find out more), it means a little something different in my world. The first of May is upon us and while that may mean one thing for fans of Jonathan Coulton (Google his name with the search term "first of May" to find out more), it means a little something different in my world. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Honesty 96 96 On Honesty full 44d2a328-cd54-49bc-991b-74fd6a819b1e https://share.transistor.fm/s/48d04fd2 On this episode of #3MoT I talk about the role that honesty plays in your personal productivity and time management. It may not seem to be as big a deal as you might think, but it is.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I talk about the role that honesty plays in your personal productivity and time management. It may not seem to be as big a deal as you might think, but it is.

]]> Tue, 30 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Honesty is the best policy - even when it comes to your to do list and how and where you're spending your time and attention. Honesty is the best policy - even when it comes to your to do list and how and where you're spending your time and attention. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Wishes 95 95 On Wishes full 081c389d-e8a6-4d95-9cf4-c4f102c6bf47 https://share.transistor.fm/s/39726a88 On this episode of the podcast I share with you how to turn your wish list into a to do list in a manner that makes sense and won't overwhelm you at the same time. You'll need patience and willpower as allies but it can be done...and done well.

]]> On this episode of the podcast I share with you how to turn your wish list into a to do list in a manner that makes sense and won't overwhelm you at the same time. You'll need patience and willpower as allies but it can be done...and done well.

]]> Mon, 29 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 There's a difference between a wish list and a to do list. But those differences aren't as great as you might think once you decide to invest some of your attention to that first list. There's a difference between a wish list and a to do list. But those differences aren't as great as you might think once you decide to invest some of your attention to that first list. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Heroism 94 94 On Heroism full c7f4b04b-6b92-4270-a4d5-8e56ff897920 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f8e31c9b As I've been writing my new book I've spent time thinking about the tasks on your to do list that can really "save the day." I'll share with you my thoughts on these types of tasks and how you can use them any time you feel the need to save your own day, becoming a hero for yourself in the process

]]> As I've been writing my new book I've spent time thinking about the tasks on your to do list that can really "save the day." I'll share with you my thoughts on these types of tasks and how you can use them any time you feel the need to save your own day, becoming a hero for yourself in the process

]]> Sun, 28 Apr 2019 22:15:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I've seen the new Avengers movie. This podcast contains absolutely no spoilers but it does contain my thoughts on heroism – and "superheroism" as well. I've seen the new Avengers movie. This podcast contains absolutely no spoilers but it does contain my thoughts on heroism – and "superheroism" as well. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Listening 93 93 On Listening full 6b4c8054-7500-4595-a200-efa96b75a263 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4c2413da On this episode of #3MoT, I encourage you to spend some time listening more. To the thoughts in your head, to the words on your to do list, to the appointments on your calendar. Why? Because there's value there. Sometimes you just need to spend time listening to notice it.

Check out Rob Walker's work on noticing here.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT, I encourage you to spend some time listening more. To the thoughts in your head, to the words on your to do list, to the appointments on your calendar. Why? Because there's value there. Sometimes you just need to spend time listening to notice it.

Check out Rob Walker's work on noticing here.

]]> Sat, 27 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Do you ever listen to your calendar or your to do list? I don't just mean look at it...I mean listen to it. Really listen to it. Do you ever listen to your calendar or your to do list? I don't just mean look at it...I mean listen to it. Really listen to it. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Twisted To Do Lists 92 92 On Twisted To Do Lists full 30bd50bb-61c1-492d-83fa-76740515796d https://share.transistor.fm/s/2cab0606 On this episode of #3MoT I talk about the importance if really looking at your to do list to make sure that it is the to do list you really need it to be so it can take you in the direction that you really want to go.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I talk about the importance if really looking at your to do list to make sure that it is the to do list you really need it to be so it can take you in the direction that you really want to go.

]]> Fri, 26 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I want you to look at your to do list right now and ask yourself this question: Is this to do list doing everything it can to get me to where I want to go? Or is it twisting me around and sending me in a completely different direction? I want you to look at your to do list right now and ask yourself this question: Is this to do list doing everything it can to get me to where I want to go? Or is it twisting me around and sending me in a completely different direction? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Gratitude 91 91 On Gratitude full 8c586005-779e-4074-a8dd-1b3470c69689 https://share.transistor.fm/s/32f8919e On this episode of the show, I talk about gratitude and its effect on your productivity. If you want to dig deeper into the world of bringing gratitude, I encourage you to check out the work of my good friend Karl Staib over at Bring Gratitude. Doing so is definitely time well spent.

]]> On this episode of the show, I talk about gratitude and its effect on your productivity. If you want to dig deeper into the world of bringing gratitude, I encourage you to check out the work of my good friend Karl Staib over at Bring Gratitude. Doing so is definitely time well spent.

]]> Thu, 25 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 If there's one thing that you can make an effort to do that will make a difference in the shape of your day, it's develop a way to bring gratitude into it. If there's one thing that you can make an effort to do that will make a difference in the shape of your day, it's develop a way to bring gratitude into it. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Administrative Work 90 90 On Administrative Work full f2f2cda6-053e-4df0-ab87-34dca90d4a39 https://share.transistor.fm/s/650f6893 But is it possible that we spend too much time on administrative work? Do we look for work there over the work that may take us beyond the status quo because that work is easier to do than the work that will take us to greater heights? That's what I'm exploring on this episode of #3MoT - as well as how to do the administrative work so it doesn't overtake your day.

]]> But is it possible that we spend too much time on administrative work? Do we look for work there over the work that may take us beyond the status quo because that work is easier to do than the work that will take us to greater heights? That's what I'm exploring on this episode of #3MoT - as well as how to do the administrative work so it doesn't overtake your day.

]]> Wed, 24 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Let's face it: administrative work is something we need to do more often than not. That type of work houses the tasks that allow us to maintain the status quo and if administrative tasks get neglected, then we could be in for some trouble. Let's face it: administrative work is something we need to do more often than not. That type of work houses the tasks that allow us to maintain the status quo and if administrative tasks get neglected, then we could be in for some trouble. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Losing Awareness 89 89 On Losing Awareness full 5dff9c40-4380-41bf-98e5-e9c45c02ca57 https://share.transistor.fm/s/255deec2 There’s more to it than that. On this episode I share what that “more“ is and how you can regain awareness should you lose it ( and maintain it going forward).

]]> There’s more to it than that. On this episode I share what that “more“ is and how you can regain awareness should you lose it ( and maintain it going forward).

]]> Tue, 23 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Awareness is one of the key ingredients in the recipe of personal productivity. But what happens when you lose awareness? Do you lose productivity? Awareness is one of the key ingredients in the recipe of personal productivity. But what happens when you lose awareness? Do you lose productivity? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Impact 88 88 On Impact full 75f3da35-0c65-437a-9a61-abd346d5c942 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5ad1ae77 On today’s episode I want to share with you my thoughts on impact and how you can craft your time and to do list in a way that allows you to move forward in a way that will have a greater impact on your life and the lives of others. 

]]> On today’s episode I want to share with you my thoughts on impact and how you can craft your time and to do list in a way that allows you to move forward in a way that will have a greater impact on your life and the lives of others. 

]]> Mon, 22 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Les Brown said that “in every day, there are 1,440 minutes. That means we have 1,440 daily opportunities to make a positive impact.” Les Brown said that “in every day, there are 1,440 minutes. That means we have 1,440 daily opportunities to make a positive impact.” time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Newness 87 87 On Newness full 7a3ba222-e4ab-46a8-9185-9cde7c2de1c8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c68b889d But they can also bring uncertainty and inexperience. On this episode I discuss the drawbacks of seeking out the allure of “newness” and what can be more beneficial to your intentions and attention instead.

]]> But they can also bring uncertainty and inexperience. On this episode I discuss the drawbacks of seeking out the allure of “newness” and what can be more beneficial to your intentions and attention instead.

]]> Sun, 21 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 New things are fascinating. They have an unknown element to them that can exciting and tempting. New things are fascinating. They have an unknown element to them that can exciting and tempting. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Timelessness 86 86 On Timelessness full ff05f3de-c682-4767-a29f-7abe353a66fc https://share.transistor.fm/s/ccb4eec9 On this episode I discuss why I’ve invested more time, energy, and attention on crafting my methodology in a way that places timelessness over timeliness.

]]> On this episode I discuss why I’ve invested more time, energy, and attention on crafting my methodology in a way that places timelessness over timeliness.

]]> Sat, 20 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I stopped writing about apps as much as I used to when I recognized that keeping up with them puts me on the wrong side of timelessness. I stopped writing about apps as much as I used to when I recognized that keeping up with them puts me on the wrong side of timelessness. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Hidden Tasks 85 85 On Hidden Tasks full a8013a6d-35ef-4c60-870f-1e578e816c71 https://share.transistor.fm/s/94758291 On this episode of the podcast, I reveal two potential hiding spots for these tasks so that you can foster awareness around them and keep them from evading you more often than not.

]]> On this episode of the podcast, I reveal two potential hiding spots for these tasks so that you can foster awareness around them and keep them from evading you more often than not.

]]> Fri, 19 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 The tasks on your to do list are usually noticeable, staring you straight in the face as you make your way through the day’s, week’s, and beyond. But there are plenty of them that are hiding from you - and some are hiding from you in plain sight. The tasks on your to do list are usually noticeable, staring you straight in the face as you make your way through the day’s, week’s, and beyond. But there are plenty of them that are hiding from you - and some are hiding from you in plain sight. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Praise 84 84 On Praise full 0511801a-8cda-4c2a-a5db-a8b9633d9e36 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6f90f4d1 On this episode of #3MoT I talk about how what Page did was unique, the phrase that kicked off his WCW entrance theme, what all of this has to do with Jerry Maguire, and why praising yourself matters.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I talk about how what Page did was unique, the phrase that kicked off his WCW entrance theme, what all of this has to do with Jerry Maguire, and why praising yourself matters.

]]> Thu, 18 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Usually those that enter the pro wrestling profession don't start off as managers and THEN enter the ring as competitors. But that's exactly what Diamond Dallas Page did. Usually those that enter the pro wrestling profession don't start off as managers and THEN enter the ring as competitors. But that's exactly what Diamond Dallas Page did. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Biases and Bananas 83 83 On Biases and Bananas full 5839c9df-5e71-45cb-9650-7946ed4e6195 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a35708f0 On this episode of the podcast I speak to biases and how the way many humans have been taught to peel a banana is not the only way to do it. (It isn't wrong, but it isn't right, either.)

]]> On this episode of the podcast I speak to biases and how the way many humans have been taught to peel a banana is not the only way to do it. (It isn't wrong, but it isn't right, either.)

]]> Wed, 17 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 How do you peel a banana? Have you always peeled it that way? Why? If you've changed the way you peel one, why did you change? How do you peel a banana? Have you always peeled it that way? Why? If you've changed the way you peel one, why did you change? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Forgetting 82 82 On Forgetting full 83e72a43-46d8-4543-95be-be144452d33d https://share.transistor.fm/s/7f93be1e On this episode I'll discuss how I'm accepting forgetting things as part of my process, allowing my mind to do more of the deep and creative work it was designed to do. Yet at the same time I've found ways to keep my memories alive and, better still, intact.

]]> On this episode I'll discuss how I'm accepting forgetting things as part of my process, allowing my mind to do more of the deep and creative work it was designed to do. Yet at the same time I've found ways to keep my memories alive and, better still, intact.

]]> Tue, 16 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I used to pride myself on having an excellent memory. But in recent years I've felt that my mind is better at playing tricks with my memories than remembering them. I used to pride myself on having an excellent memory. But in recent years I've felt that my mind is better at playing tricks with my memories than remembering them. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On My Next Big Project 81 81 On My Next Big Project full 1d1c2066-ca2c-40a1-9f15-769f4a99af83 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3900d383 During these three minutes I'll share more about my next big project and how I'm working daily to keep it in perspective. Essentially, I'm doing all I can to take my own advice – even when my mind is pulling me away from that.

]]> During these three minutes I'll share more about my next big project and how I'm working daily to keep it in perspective. Essentially, I'm doing all I can to take my own advice – even when my mind is pulling me away from that.

]]> Mon, 15 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I'm working on a project that is going to have my focus and attention for at least the next seven months (likely more). It seems daunting at times and overwhelming as well. But it's really not. I'm working on a project that is going to have my focus and attention for at least the next seven months (likely more). It seems daunting at times and overwhelming as well. But it's really not. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On "Batching" Tasks 80 80 On "Batching" Tasks full 97a770c8-f953-4992-b777-f9a217937952 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4de513b7 I use the lens of making this podcast as a way to show you how to batch tasks when needed and when doing them daily instead makes more sense. (You may not be doing a podcast like I am but I'm sure you can find something that fits the mould of my example here.)

]]> I use the lens of making this podcast as a way to show you how to batch tasks when needed and when doing them daily instead makes more sense. (You may not be doing a podcast like I am but I'm sure you can find something that fits the mould of my example here.)

]]> Sun, 14 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 I am a big fan of batching tasks by theme or mode. But in some instances you need to know when batching makes sense...and when it doesn't. I am a big fan of batching tasks by theme or mode. But in some instances you need to know when batching makes sense...and when it doesn't. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Flexibility and Frameworks 79 79 On Flexibility and Frameworks full d2e9be1f-5a1f-4500-84c7-63b324a88134 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8fc372e4 During this episode I talk about the concept of flexibility within frameworks – including TimeCrafting – and how it's such a personal thing and why looking at the shape of your day matters when figuring out whether or not your framework is flexible enough for you.

]]> During this episode I talk about the concept of flexibility within frameworks – including TimeCrafting – and how it's such a personal thing and why looking at the shape of your day matters when figuring out whether or not your framework is flexible enough for you.

]]> Sat, 13 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 There are a few people who believe my framework is far from flexible. But that couldn't be further from the truth. There are a few people who believe my framework is far from flexible. But that couldn't be further from the truth. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Productive Communication 78 78 On Productive Communication full 46434ed8-ee77-4c52-80cc-b122ba7cb956 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a727c939 So today I wanted to share with you my thoughts and approaches to the different ways we can communicate and how some ways we choose to communicate can be more productive than others.

]]> So today I wanted to share with you my thoughts and approaches to the different ways we can communicate and how some ways we choose to communicate can be more productive than others.

]]> Fri, 12 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 In a recent conversation with Justin Kerr (author of How to Be Good at Your Job) for an upcoming episode of The Productivityist Podcast we spoke about productive communication practices. In a recent conversation with Justin Kerr (author of How to Be Good at Your Job) for an upcoming episode of The Productivityist Podcast we spoke about productive communication practices. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Push Notifications and Pulling Focus 77 77 Push Notifications and Pulling Focus full e2eb2e45-fb2b-4f85-8bec-aaf8c9cc109f https://share.transistor.fm/s/b56744b7 On this episode of 3MoT, I offer insights and ideas around how to manage your notifications in a way that works for you rather than against you.

]]> On this episode of 3MoT, I offer insights and ideas around how to manage your notifications in a way that works for you rather than against you.

]]> Thu, 11 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Push notifications are designed to push you towards an app. They are also designed to pull focus away from anything but that app. Push notifications are designed to push you towards an app. They are also designed to pull focus away from anything but that app. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Against The Wind 76 76 Against The Wind full 72280712-3c47-4c3d-a353-d16da4f3d818 https://share.transistor.fm/s/da1ac806 On this episode I decide to explore that further, especially when it comes in relation to crafting your time and bucking the trend of conventional productivity practices. 

]]> On this episode I decide to explore that further, especially when it comes in relation to crafting your time and bucking the trend of conventional productivity practices. 

]]> Wed, 10 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 I was reading through some quotes from Sir Winston Churchill and one in particular stood out to me above all the others: “Kites rise highest against the wind, not with it.” I was reading through some quotes from Sir Winston Churchill and one in particular stood out to me above all the others: “Kites rise highest against the wind, not with it.” time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Time for Necessary Endings 75 75 The Time for Necessary Endings full 61a75741-4ec0-41e7-a0ef-4f6cab450d19 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3b1a0ad0 On this episode I explore the idea of necessary endings – something I've explored before – and share why even those things that might be doing okay right now may need to end so that other things can thrive over the long haul.

]]> On this episode I explore the idea of necessary endings – something I've explored before – and share why even those things that might be doing okay right now may need to end so that other things can thrive over the long haul.

]]> Tue, 09 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 No, I'm not ending this daily podcast. Instead, I'm talking about teh book by Dr. Henry Cloud called "Necessary Endings." No, I'm not ending this daily podcast. Instead, I'm talking about teh book by Dr. Henry Cloud called "Necessary Endings." time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No What Noticing Does: Part Three 74 74 What Noticing Does: Part Three full 8048c89b-72d0-4653-8ea7-5e6859f1a465 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f0d65762 If you want to explore this topic even further than what I'll be doing in this series, I recommend you subscribe to Rob Walker's weekly email, The Art of Noticing. You can do that here.

]]> If you want to explore this topic even further than what I'll be doing in this series, I recommend you subscribe to Rob Walker's weekly email, The Art of Noticing. You can do that here.

]]> Mon, 08 Apr 2019 11:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 In this third and final part of my series on what noticing does, I share what the cost of noticing is, why it's important that you understand that cost, and what happens when you don't deal with that cost accordingly. In this third and final part of my series on what noticing does, I share what the cost of noticing is, why it's important that you understand that cost, and what happens when you don't deal with that cost accordingly. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No What Noticing Does: Part Two 73 73 What Noticing Does: Part Two full 7067de4a-dc9d-4750-9dc1-3cf045870406 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f227bbcf If you want to explore this topic even further than what I'll be doing in this series, I recommend you subscribe to Rob Walker's weekly email, The Art of Noticing. You can do that here.

]]> If you want to explore this topic even further than what I'll be doing in this series, I recommend you subscribe to Rob Walker's weekly email, The Art of Noticing. You can do that here.

]]> Sun, 07 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In this second part of a three-part series on what noticing does, I offer up the one thing you can start doing today that will improve your sense of awareness and ability to pay attention to what you're noticing every single day. In this second part of a three-part series on what noticing does, I offer up the one thing you can start doing today that will improve your sense of awareness and ability to pay attention to what you're noticing every single day. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No What Noticing Does: Part One 72 72 What Noticing Does: Part One full 644eff68-a9f9-47c1-b37c-9f1ca268e1fe https://share.transistor.fm/s/748d3958 If you want to explore this topic even further than what I'll be doing in this series, I recommend you subscribe to Rob Walker's weekly email, The Art of Noticing. You can do that here.

]]> If you want to explore this topic even further than what I'll be doing in this series, I recommend you subscribe to Rob Walker's weekly email, The Art of Noticing. You can do that here.

]]> Sat, 06 Apr 2019 14:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In the first part of a three-part series on "noticing" I discuss why I've chosen to explore this subject and the beginnings of what noticing does for you. In the first part of a three-part series on "noticing" I discuss why I've chosen to explore this subject and the beginnings of what noticing does for you. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How I (Do My Best to) Fend Off Fear and Anger 71 71 How I (Do My Best to) Fend Off Fear and Anger full 200ae18a-104e-420f-8e5d-eed089a62d72 https://share.transistor.fm/s/801a5154 Weird, right? Not if you understand why. In this episode I explain how my affinity for Green Lantern helps me defend myself against the perils of fear and anger – two emotions that can derail your attention and focus, leaving your positive intentions to linger in limbo.

]]> Weird, right? Not if you understand why. In this episode I explain how my affinity for Green Lantern helps me defend myself against the perils of fear and anger – two emotions that can derail your attention and focus, leaving your positive intentions to linger in limbo.

]]> Fri, 05 Apr 2019 12:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 I've made no secret of my love for the comic book hero Green Lantern. I've not been a lifelong fan of the character but over the past decade or so, Hal Jordan's version has been a big part of my life. I've made no secret of my love for the comic book hero Green Lantern. I've not been a lifelong fan of the character but over the past decade or so, Hal Jordan's version has been a big part of my life. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No There Will Be Days 70 70 There Will Be Days full cffb6883-51ae-46eb-8147-8e541d857832 https://share.transistor.fm/s/170e8ec4 There will be days when you feel compelled to write at midnight because you have something important to say that goes well beyond journaling.

There will be days when your system isn’t working at its best.

There will be days when distractions, disruptions, and diversion get the better of you.

There will be days when intention doesn’t get the attention it requires…and vice versa.

There will be days when you rush around instead of look around.

There will be days when The Resistance wins more than it loses.

There will be days when all of these things happen. The goal is to make them as infrequent as possible. So don’t punish yourself too much when they do occur. Simply notice it and work towards figuring out how to ward them off going forward. Because that’s the only way you can help yourself to move forward instead of moving in directions that you don’t want to go.

]]> There will be days when you feel compelled to write at midnight because you have something important to say that goes well beyond journaling.

There will be days when your system isn’t working at its best.

There will be days when distractions, disruptions, and diversion get the better of you.

There will be days when intention doesn’t get the attention it requires…and vice versa.

There will be days when you rush around instead of look around.

There will be days when The Resistance wins more than it loses.

There will be days when all of these things happen. The goal is to make them as infrequent as possible. So don’t punish yourself too much when they do occur. Simply notice it and work towards figuring out how to ward them off going forward. Because that’s the only way you can help yourself to move forward instead of moving in directions that you don’t want to go.

]]> Thu, 04 Apr 2019 10:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 There are seven days in a week and between 28 and 31 in a month. Not one of them is the same as another, no matter how routine you may try to make them. There will always be days that challenge you more than others. There are seven days in a week and between 28 and 31 in a month. Not one of them is the same as another, no matter how routine you may try to make them. There will always be days that challenge you more than others. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How to Foster Hope with Your To Do List 69 69 How to Foster Hope with Your To Do List full fa492411-259a-4958-bb2a-c5746716a072 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ab9d9ebe On this episode of the program I’m going to offer my ideas on how you can craft a to do list that fosters something we all need to have: hope.

]]> On this episode of the program I’m going to offer my ideas on how you can craft a to do list that fosters something we all need to have: hope.

]]> Wed, 03 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 If you’re looking at your to do list with a sense of sheer hopelessness more often than not, then you’re making the wrong kind of to do list. If you’re looking at your to do list with a sense of sheer hopelessness more often than not, then you’re making the wrong kind of to do list. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Worry and Productivity 68 68 Worry and Productivity full 8237480f-d39f-4343-9f87-bf4d12b585d1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b50eafec But worry can also serve you. It’s just a matter of not becoming such a slave to it that it compromises your productivity and time management. I’m going to explore worry and productivity more on this episode of 3MoT, all in three minutes.

]]> But worry can also serve you. It’s just a matter of not becoming such a slave to it that it compromises your productivity and time management. I’m going to explore worry and productivity more on this episode of 3MoT, all in three minutes.

]]> Tue, 02 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Comedian George Burns once said, “If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension. And if you didn't ask me, I'd still have to say it.” He was right. Comedian George Burns once said, “If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension. And if you didn't ask me, I'd still have to say it.” He was right. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Foolish Productivity 67 67 Foolish Productivity full 36422e61-74da-4426-a072-aae0042c034d https://share.transistor.fm/s/58e42004 On this episode of #3MoT I share with you how to fight back against the allure of foolish productivity, something that often presents itself as valuable but winds up being just a waste of your time.

]]> On this episode of #3MoT I share with you how to fight back against the allure of foolish productivity, something that often presents itself as valuable but winds up being just a waste of your time.

]]> Mon, 01 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I’ll let you in a little secret: busywork is not always productive work. Thinking that is the case puts you in the crosshairs of performing acts of foolish productivity. I’ll let you in a little secret: busywork is not always productive work. Thinking that is the case puts you in the crosshairs of performing acts of foolish productivity. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No No Matter What 66 66 No Matter What full 46bd53f4-74fe-47f5-b00b-ce0c00850c37 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b3423dac The words “no matter what” offer a sense of perseverance and resilience to them. Combined with “Whatever it ages” there’s even a sense of endurance in there as well. But unlike the first part of my Annual Axiom, the second part doesn't offer as much flexibility. I explain why that is and, better still, why that is important to me when it comes to yearly slogan. 

]]> The words “no matter what” offer a sense of perseverance and resilience to them. Combined with “Whatever it ages” there’s even a sense of endurance in there as well. But unlike the first part of my Annual Axiom, the second part doesn't offer as much flexibility. I explain why that is and, better still, why that is important to me when it comes to yearly slogan. 

]]> Sun, 31 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 Yesterday I shared with you the first half of what I’ve called my Annual Axiom. Today I’m going to explain why “No Matter What” is the second element of this element of my TimeCrafting methodology. Yesterday I shared with you the first half of what I’ve called my Annual Axiom. Today I’m going to explain why “No Matter What” is the second element of this element of my TimeCrafting methodology. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Whatever It Takes 65 65 Whatever It Takes full e7c2775a-210a-45c5-84a0-80da2d201d88 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b9e04e0e You see, that phrase is the first part of what I call my Annual Axiom. On this episode of the program, I explain why I’m using it and what aspect of it is subjective enough to create some flexibility in the phrase. (Oh, and I also share how it has helped me with my personal productivity so far.)

]]> You see, that phrase is the first part of what I call my Annual Axiom. On this episode of the program, I explain why I’m using it and what aspect of it is subjective enough to create some flexibility in the phrase. (Oh, and I also share how it has helped me with my personal productivity so far.)

]]> Sat, 30 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In the advertising leading up to the release of the Marvel movie Avengers: Endgame, the phrase “Whatever it takes” was a central theme. That definitely piqued my interest in a way that was rather unexpected. In the advertising leading up to the release of the Marvel movie Avengers: Endgame, the phrase “Whatever it takes” was a central theme. That definitely piqued my interest in a way that was rather unexpected. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Don't Make a Deceptive To Do List 64 64 Don't Make a Deceptive To Do List full e1910c8c-406f-458b-b1c7-d6b6192357ca https://share.transistor.fm/s/61fc4d6e One of the things that can keep you from trusting your to do list is by making one that is deceptive. It’s not intentional  — usually — but it does happen. In this episode of the podcast I talk about how to avoid creating a to do list containing elements of deception. 

]]> One of the things that can keep you from trusting your to do list is by making one that is deceptive. It’s not intentional  — usually — but it does happen. In this episode of the podcast I talk about how to avoid creating a to do list containing elements of deception. 

]]> Fri, 29 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 When you look at your daily to do list does it appear to be...honest? Or are there things on there that you know aren’t going to be accomplished in a single day? When you look at your daily to do list does it appear to be...honest? Or are there things on there that you know aren’t going to be accomplished in a single day? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How to Make Things Stick 63 63 How to Make Things Stick full 9149c4c4-e61e-40c6-adb1-42c27a947cc1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bd92f770 On this episode I share with you some ways to make sure that the things you're trying to do – be they establishing new habits, breaking bad ones, or even adopting a new way of operating (like timeCrafting, for example) – take hold and stick for the long term.

]]> On this episode I share with you some ways to make sure that the things you're trying to do – be they establishing new habits, breaking bad ones, or even adopting a new way of operating (like timeCrafting, for example) – take hold and stick for the long term.

]]> Thu, 28 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 When you're trying to make some changes in your life – whether they are related to time management or not – you've got to find a way to make these things stick. When you're trying to make some changes in your life – whether they are related to time management or not – you've got to find a way to make these things stick. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How to Use an Umbrella 62 62 How to Use an Umbrella full 119ac097-3a0e-4ca0-9c4e-b662fee39832 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6b820f4f But umbrellas aren't just used for keeping you dry. For some people, umbrellas are used to keep them cool. And kids tend to use them as swords or some other weapon when play-fighting. (And let's not forget how Batman villain The Penguin used one...) So how do you use an umbrella? I'm going to explore that on this episode of the show.

]]> But umbrellas aren't just used for keeping you dry. For some people, umbrellas are used to keep them cool. And kids tend to use them as swords or some other weapon when play-fighting. (And let's not forget how Batman villain The Penguin used one...) So how do you use an umbrella? I'm going to explore that on this episode of the show.

]]> Wed, 27 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I live in a part of the world where an umbrella is a wise investment. It pretty much rains in Victoria off and on from November through April. I live in a part of the world where an umbrella is a wise investment. It pretty much rains in Victoria off and on from November through April. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Sameness Equals Saneness 61 61 Sameness Equals Saneness full 209b7aa7-f354-45fe-a99c-3d9cc8300d82 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f5abde71 The concept of consistency is one that I believe is helpful when trying to practice a productive lifestyle. There's some safety in "sameness" and on this episode I'll share my thought on why there's sanity to be found there as well.

]]> The concept of consistency is one that I believe is helpful when trying to practice a productive lifestyle. There's some safety in "sameness" and on this episode I'll share my thought on why there's sanity to be found there as well.

]]> Tue, 26 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Albert Einstein once said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatdely and expecting a different result. So perhaps sanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting the same result? Albert Einstein once said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatdely and expecting a different result. So perhaps sanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting the same result? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Big Things are Made of the Smallest Stuff 60 60 Big Things are Made of the Smallest Stuff full c021adca-443b-43fe-b19d-724c36f52ecf https://share.transistor.fm/s/bed76e1c Projects are built of small units, better known as tasks. But too often we tend to confuse a task with something that is actually a project. On this episode my aim is to get you thinking about the small stuff so that you can make something - like an impact - big.

]]> Projects are built of small units, better known as tasks. But too often we tend to confuse a task with something that is actually a project. On this episode my aim is to get you thinking about the small stuff so that you can make something - like an impact - big.

]]> Mon, 25 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Everything that is big starts out as something small. James Clear has even gone so far as to call the core habits that can help us get better “atomic.” Everything that is big starts out as something small. James Clear has even gone so far as to call the core habits that can help us get better “atomic.” time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The IDEA Criteria 59 59 The IDEA Criteria full 76dc00ef-6030-4edb-ac21-c72ede9cb367 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c79a1026 Having this tool in my arsenal makes the scary stuff less scary. The IDEA Criteria helps me make better decisions, and I have no doubt it will also serve you well. I hope you enjoy learning about it on this episode.

]]> Having this tool in my arsenal makes the scary stuff less scary. The IDEA Criteria helps me make better decisions, and I have no doubt it will also serve you well. I hope you enjoy learning about it on this episode.

]]> Sun, 24 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 The IDEA Criteria is something I use to evaluate each and every big idea that I have, so that I know whether or not it is worth moving forward on-or how much time I want to invest at any given point. The IDEA Criteria is something I use to evaluate each and every big idea that I have, so that I know whether or not it is worth moving forward on-or how much time I want to invest at any given point. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Almost Done (But Not Quite) 58 58 Almost Done (But Not Quite) full 12a8c404-4164-47b9-afb2-bea1748ae0bb https://share.transistor.fm/s/9c463bd1 I bet you there’s at least one task on it - if not more - that holds that disinion. On this episode I’m going to share with you why you need to keep tabs on your recurring tasks in a way that gives you the feeling and sense that you’re making progress on it every step of the way.

]]> I bet you there’s at least one task on it - if not more - that holds that disinion. On this episode I’m going to share with you why you need to keep tabs on your recurring tasks in a way that gives you the feeling and sense that you’re making progress on it every step of the way.

]]> Sat, 23 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Take a look at your to do list. Can you honestly say that there’s not one task on that list that you’ll need more than just today to complete? That it won’t be done today but it will be “almost” done? Take a look at your to do list. Can you honestly say that there’s not one task on that list that you’ll need more than just today to complete? That it won’t be done today but it will be “almost” done? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No It's Okay to Waste Time 57 57 It's Okay to Waste Time full 6aa6569c-0759-4b6a-9f8a-38249bff140d https://share.transistor.fm/s/54539f4e Whenever you hear about wasting time, it’s often associated with it being a bad idea. But not all wasted time is really wasted. I talk about that today for about three minutes.

]]> Whenever you hear about wasting time, it’s often associated with it being a bad idea. But not all wasted time is really wasted. I talk about that today for about three minutes.

]]> Fri, 22 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 After speaking with Austin Kleon earlier this week for an episode of my weekly podcast, I decided to dig into the idea of wasting time. After speaking with Austin Kleon earlier this week for an episode of my weekly podcast, I decided to dig into the idea of wasting time. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Take Time to Tell Your Story 56 56 Take Time to Tell Your Story full 1c4eafb7-1bac-4e30-83db-989e0f3961e6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5b900acf I spend at least five minutes a day - at the end of the day - writing in my journal. On this episode I share with you why I do that and why I think it's important that you journal as well (no matter what time of day you decide to do it).

]]> I spend at least five minutes a day - at the end of the day - writing in my journal. On this episode I share with you why I do that and why I think it's important that you journal as well (no matter what time of day you decide to do it).

]]> Thu, 21 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Last time I shared with you my thoughts on your to do list - the idea that it is your story. But there's another productivity practice that acts as a story that you need to take time to tell. I wonder if you do that already... Last time I shared with you my thoughts on your to do list - the idea that it is your story. But there's another productivity practice that acts as a story that you need to take time to tell. I wonder if you do that already... time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Your To Do List is a Story 55 55 Your To Do List is a Story full e0de8982-64c6-4197-a776-c90993f238ee https://share.transistor.fm/s/12d241df I'm going to ask you to take a long look at your to do list in this episode. You'll need to do that to figure out if the story that it's telling is one that you want to be told (at least, by you). I'll offer some things to consider when looking over the story that is your to do list and what you can do to make your to do list look more like the story you want to tell. 

]]> I'm going to ask you to take a long look at your to do list in this episode. You'll need to do that to figure out if the story that it's telling is one that you want to be told (at least, by you). I'll offer some things to consider when looking over the story that is your to do list and what you can do to make your to do list look more like the story you want to tell. 

]]> Wed, 20 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Believe it or not, your to do list a story. The question is: is it a story that you want to be telling...or living? Believe it or not, your to do list a story. The question is: is it a story that you want to be telling...or living? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Serving Work vs Self-Serving Work 54 54 Serving Work vs Self-Serving Work full d0214d20-c5b7-4b7d-a757-4afc58c0d6be https://share.transistor.fm/s/48b17ded I'm going to help you with that today. If you're one of those people who feel as if their days are too "dynamic" that they can't be themed, I'm going to serve you the way one of my clients structured their day for productivity and progress. (Think of this episode as a sneak preview of an element of TimeCrafting I've yet to dig into on this podcast.)

]]> I'm going to help you with that today. If you're one of those people who feel as if their days are too "dynamic" that they can't be themed, I'm going to serve you the way one of my clients structured their day for productivity and progress. (Think of this episode as a sneak preview of an element of TimeCrafting I've yet to dig into on this podcast.)

]]> Tue, 19 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Some people cannot theme their days – or enough of them to make the practice a worthwhile pursuit for them. But there are other ways to theme your time. You just need to think outside the box a bit. Some people cannot theme their days – or enough of them to make the practice a worthwhile pursuit for them. But there are other ways to theme your time. You just need to think outside the box a bit. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The One Email You Should Send Before Going on Vacation 53 53 The One Email You Should Send Before Going on Vacation full b32c4f2a-e04e-4173-9bff-75813e8c4bb9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b626ab15 Here's the email. Feel free to copy and paste it (and edit it as you see fit).

CLIENT NAME,


I will be out of the office from DATE LEAVING to DATE RETURNING but wanted to assure you that I have handed off all important information off to DELEGATE’S NAME while I am away. Should you have any questions or need anything during this time, please feel free to contact DELEGATE’S NAME and they will do their best to assist you.


Any correspondence (email or phone calls) sent my way will be responded to within 2–3 days of my return.

Sincerely,
YOUR NAME

Here's the blog post I wrote about this email.

]]> Here's the email. Feel free to copy and paste it (and edit it as you see fit).

CLIENT NAME,


I will be out of the office from DATE LEAVING to DATE RETURNING but wanted to assure you that I have handed off all important information off to DELEGATE’S NAME while I am away. Should you have any questions or need anything during this time, please feel free to contact DELEGATE’S NAME and they will do their best to assist you.


Any correspondence (email or phone calls) sent my way will be responded to within 2–3 days of my return.

Sincerely,
YOUR NAME

Here's the blog post I wrote about this email.

]]> Mon, 18 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 176 There’s nothing worse than dreading a return from being away from the desk. Sending out this one email before you go anywhere for an extended period of time will help lessen that feeling. There’s nothing worse than dreading a return from being away from the desk. Sending out this one email before you go anywhere for an extended period of time will help lessen that feeling. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Lucky Time Management 52 52 Lucky Time Management full eb3ee57d-1715-43b3-96fd-f106e52a55ce https://share.transistor.fm/s/08e3f62d Luck is a tricky thing. It can show up when we really need it and disappear when we need it even more. Today I'm going to share with you how you can deal with luck not going your way on any given occasion and why you shouldn't trust it to give you the outcome you're looking for in the first place.

]]> Luck is a tricky thing. It can show up when we really need it and disappear when we need it even more. Today I'm going to share with you how you can deal with luck not going your way on any given occasion and why you shouldn't trust it to give you the outcome you're looking for in the first place.

]]> Sun, 17 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Do you remember cramming for exams in school? I do. How well did that turn out for you? Sometimes good, sometimes not? Either way, when you do that kind of thing with your time you are trying to see how far luck will take you. Do you remember cramming for exams in school? I do. How well did that turn out for you? Sometimes good, sometimes not? Either way, when you do that kind of thing with your time you are trying to see how far luck will take you. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Overnight Success Story 51 51 The Overnight Success Story full c5ed3a30-a72b-41b4-acc4-044d33e39e99 https://share.transistor.fm/s/85d7d66f Steve Austin - better known as Stone Cold Steve Austin to pro wrestling fans like me – is a fine example of an overnight success story. How? And what does this have to do with time management and productivity? Well, you'll find out after listening to this episode.

]]> Steve Austin - better known as Stone Cold Steve Austin to pro wrestling fans like me – is a fine example of an overnight success story. How? And what does this have to do with time management and productivity? Well, you'll find out after listening to this episode.

]]> Sat, 16 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 I rarely share the stories of others on this podcast (I save that for my weekly show, The Productivityist Podcast) but today I'm making an exception. Today I'm going to tell you the story of the overnight success story known as Steve Austin. I rarely share the stories of others on this podcast (I save that for my weekly show, The Productivityist Podcast) but today I'm making an exception. Today I'm going to tell you the story of the overnight success story known as Steve Austin. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Get Some Sleep (No Matter What) 50 50 Get Some Sleep (No Matter What) full a1d3967c-c35d-450c-92e6-ae6a7a71808e https://share.transistor.fm/s/b7cd32ec Today I'm going to talk about why even though I don't condone fighting your body clock there will be instances where you need to make exceptions to the rule - no matter what.

]]> Today I'm going to talk about why even though I don't condone fighting your body clock there will be instances where you need to make exceptions to the rule - no matter what.

]]> Fri, 15 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I'm a night owl (and proud of it). But that doesn't mean I sacrifice sleep. I find ways to make sleep happen even when I can't completely adhere to my night owl nature. I'm a night owl (and proud of it). But that doesn't mean I sacrifice sleep. I find ways to make sleep happen even when I can't completely adhere to my night owl nature. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Neverending To Do List 49 49 The Neverending To Do List full 87d6a930-e83f-4d57-8aca-6b0635b55bd6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ed194534 Today I'm going to draw some comparisons to pi and the seemingly endless to do lists that we all have. Not only that, but I'll offer some advice on how to "round down" your to do list like mathematicians have done with pi. Don't worry - there won't be a test afterward. Just a few solid takeaways in only three minutes.

]]> Today I'm going to draw some comparisons to pi and the seemingly endless to do lists that we all have. Not only that, but I'll offer some advice on how to "round down" your to do list like mathematicians have done with pi. Don't worry - there won't be a test afterward. Just a few solid takeaways in only three minutes.

]]> Thu, 14 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 It's Pi Day! The day we celebrate the number 3.14 and all of its glory. But did you know that the number doesn't stop at "4"? It keeps on going and going and going and going and... It's Pi Day! The day we celebrate the number 3.14 and all of its glory. But did you know that the number doesn't stop at "4"? It keeps on going and going and going and going and... time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Just Get Through Today 48 48 Just Get Through Today full 755be9d5-5722-4f51-a359-42ffe5596a25 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c2cbbd6f Sometimes you just need to get through the day. Today might be one of those days for you. So I'm going to share with you why it's okay to have days like that and how to make sure when you do that you can some measure of direction throughout it.

]]> Sometimes you just need to get through the day. Today might be one of those days for you. So I'm going to share with you why it's okay to have days like that and how to make sure when you do that you can some measure of direction throughout it.

]]> Wed, 13 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 "Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one." - Dr. Seuss "Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one." - Dr. Seuss time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The KonMari Craze 47 47 The KonMari Craze full 8c8a1da5-5be2-4e90-86fc-1f04a766c6d8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5f7408c1 Today I'm going to explore what lies beneath all of the decluttering and minimizing in The KonMari Method. I'll also advise you on what to do when looking into a craze like this and why the terms "time management" and "productivity" have started to wear on me.

]]> Today I'm going to explore what lies beneath all of the decluttering and minimizing in The KonMari Method. I'll also advise you on what to do when looking into a craze like this and why the terms "time management" and "productivity" have started to wear on me.

]]> Tue, 12 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Marie Kondo's work is all the rage right now. But are people getting the real meaning and message behind her work? Marie Kondo's work is all the rage right now. But are people getting the real meaning and message behind her work? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No What is Overchoice? 46 46 What is Overchoice? full 3a5766c6-2d93-45e5-8fdf-eae8bd141abf https://share.transistor.fm/s/b0f3b1c8 Today I'm going to explain what "overchoice" is and how it can impact your productivity. I'll also delve into how you can overcome the phenomenon when you "futureproof" your calendar and to do list (which I alluded to last episode).

]]> Today I'm going to explain what "overchoice" is and how it can impact your productivity. I'll also delve into how you can overcome the phenomenon when you "futureproof" your calendar and to do list (which I alluded to last episode).

]]> Mon, 11 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Alvin and Heidi Tofler released their book "Future Shock" back in 1970. One of the terms introduced in that book was the concept of "overchoice." Alvin and Heidi Tofler released their book "Future Shock" back in 1970. One of the terms introduced in that book was the concept of "overchoice." time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Power of Futureproofing Your Calendar and To Do List 45 45 The Power of Futureproofing Your Calendar and To Do List full 9da203d6-fd33-48c2-a419-86e711adf3b2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/26a4af41 Today I'm going to share with you the power of "futureproofing" your calendar and to do list so that you can make progress on your tasks and projects whenever you want – and however you want – over the long run.

]]> Today I'm going to share with you the power of "futureproofing" your calendar and to do list so that you can make progress on your tasks and projects whenever you want – and however you want – over the long run.

]]> Sun, 10 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 "Focus on the things that don't change." - Jeff Bezos "Focus on the things that don't change." - Jeff Bezos time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The "Work by Mode" Series: Putting It All Together 44 44 The "Work by Mode" Series: Putting It All Together full d7608d5e-1731-47d2-9b81-42c35cbdac81 https://share.transistor.fm/s/111c8bcb Now that you've listened to the episodes where I discussed the five categories of mode-based work (you did listen to them, right?) you can start to put them together to make a more cohesive and doable to do list. Modes allow you to filter your seemingly never-ending to do list into something you can face with confidence once you start using them consistently – and in a way that works for you.

During this episode I'll share some final tips and tricks when getting started with using modes to categorize your tasks and even get into some more intermediate material. But if you want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting, then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Now that you've listened to the episodes where I discussed the five categories of mode-based work (you did listen to them, right?) you can start to put them together to make a more cohesive and doable to do list. Modes allow you to filter your seemingly never-ending to do list into something you can face with confidence once you start using them consistently – and in a way that works for you.

During this episode I'll share some final tips and tricks when getting started with using modes to categorize your tasks and even get into some more intermediate material. But if you want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting, then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Sat, 09 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In the final episode of The "Work by Mode" Series I explain how you can put all of five categories of mode-based work together so that they can work in tandem to "treat" your to do list (and your mind) a whole lot better. In the final episode of The "Work by Mode" Series I explain how you can put all of five categories of mode-based work together so that they can work in tandem to "treat" your to do list (and your mind) a whole lot better. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The "Work by Mode" Series: Time-Based Modes 43 43 The "Work by Mode" Series: Time-Based Modes full e973009e-c22b-4822-b04b-980e76df1b04 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6d69f3c8 This category is probably the easiest to start with (or fall back on) because it is the most easily measured. Having a “5 Minute Mode” is especially useful when you know you only have a half-hour between appointments because instead of scanning your to do list looking for tasks to try to do in that timespan, you can simply do quick math to try to complete six 5 minute tasks instead.

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> This category is probably the easiest to start with (or fall back on) because it is the most easily measured. Having a “5 Minute Mode” is especially useful when you know you only have a half-hour between appointments because instead of scanning your to do list looking for tasks to try to do in that timespan, you can simply do quick math to try to complete six 5 minute tasks instead.

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Fri, 08 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In the penultimate episode in this mini-series, I spend three minutes (or so) talking about the category of mode-based work that is designed to be the most quantitative of them all: Time-Based Modes. In the penultimate episode in this mini-series, I spend three minutes (or so) talking about the category of mode-based work that is designed to be the most quantitative of them all: Time-Based Modes. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The "Work by Mode" Series: Activity-Based Modes 42 42 The "Work by Mode" Series: Activity-Based Modes full 8d5fde4d-0e0f-4719-9fac-ea1efe5cf9c2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f437eef0 Here's a hint: Pretty much any verb is an Activity-Based mode, but you’ll want to use ones that pertain to your life in a way that you can connect with them more efficiently and effectively. That means you want to get specific and make them deeply personal.

This category of mode-based work is also the one that dances the line between being quantitative and qualitative in nature. It also lets you skip using a verb in your task title because the activity indicates what the verb is anyway!

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Here's a hint: Pretty much any verb is an Activity-Based mode, but you’ll want to use ones that pertain to your life in a way that you can connect with them more efficiently and effectively. That means you want to get specific and make them deeply personal.

This category of mode-based work is also the one that dances the line between being quantitative and qualitative in nature. It also lets you skip using a verb in your task title because the activity indicates what the verb is anyway!

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Thu, 07 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In the fourth episode in The "Work by Mode" Series, I speak to the category of mode-based work that serves to motivate you to act like no other. Why? Well, it's because it contains the word "act" in its name. I'm talking about Activity-Based Modes. In the fourth episode in The "Work by Mode" Series, I speak to the category of mode-based work that serves to motivate you to act like no other. Why? Well, it's because it contains the word "act" in its name. I'm talking about Activity-Based Modes. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The "Work by Mode" Series: Energy-Based Modes 41 41 The "Work by Mode" Series: Energy-Based Modes full 4bf71e2b-c0ac-4371-8b0c-ec58119c0761 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4ea0a37b Your energy levels play a much bigger role in your task and time management that you give them credit for. By using modes that identify what level of energy you need to tackle a task, you’re setting yourself up for better results on all of the items on your to do list - and you can even be more effective when you not feeling 100% to boot!

Some examples of Energy-Based Modes include:

  • Deep Work; Shallow Work
  • Full Focus; Shallow Focus
  • Primetime; Garbagetime
  • High Energy; Low Energy

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Your energy levels play a much bigger role in your task and time management that you give them credit for. By using modes that identify what level of energy you need to tackle a task, you’re setting yourself up for better results on all of the items on your to do list - and you can even be more effective when you not feeling 100% to boot!

Some examples of Energy-Based Modes include:

  • Deep Work; Shallow Work
  • Full Focus; Shallow Focus
  • Primetime; Garbagetime
  • High Energy; Low Energy

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Wed, 06 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 In this third episode of The "Work by Mode" Series I discuss a category of mode-based work that can be valuable to use but isn't one that usually would come to mind unless you tap into how you're feeling at any given moment: Energy=Based Modes. In this third episode of The "Work by Mode" Series I discuss a category of mode-based work that can be valuable to use but isn't one that usually would come to mind unless you tap into how you're feeling at any given moment: Energy=Based Modes. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The "Work by Mode" Series: Resource-Based Modes 40 40 The "Work by Mode" Series: Resource-Based Modes full 03aea330-da62-4590-aa54-fd31bba93bd0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/72ba128d If you want to know what you need to have at your disposal (or where you need to be or who you need to talk to about something) to complete a task, then Resource-Based Modes are going to be very helpful. If you use Microsoft Word a lot, then having “Word Mode” can gather all of your Word-based tasks into one mode. Same goes for Evernote. You can even create one for the biggest time suck of all: Email.

Using this mode will help you move from person to place to thing faster and with less friction. Plus you'll be able to get into that elusive state of "flow" that makes you more effective and efficient when working. 

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> If you want to know what you need to have at your disposal (or where you need to be or who you need to talk to about something) to complete a task, then Resource-Based Modes are going to be very helpful. If you use Microsoft Word a lot, then having “Word Mode” can gather all of your Word-based tasks into one mode. Same goes for Evernote. You can even create one for the biggest time suck of all: Email.

Using this mode will help you move from person to place to thing faster and with less friction. Plus you'll be able to get into that elusive state of "flow" that makes you more effective and efficient when working. 

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Tue, 05 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 In this second episode of The "Work by Mode" Series, I describe the category of mode-based work that you'll want to use if your to do list is driven more by the people you collaborate with, the places you work, or the things you use to do your work. The next three minutes is all about Resource-Based Modes. In this second episode of The "Work by Mode" Series, I describe the category of mode-based work that you'll want to use if your to do list is driven more by the people you collaborate with, the places you work, or the things you use to do your work. The n time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The "Work by Mode" Series: Theme-Based Modes 39 39 The "Work by Mode" Series: Theme-Based Modes full 018b08bc-dc2a-448b-9e6b-eb22fffb04f2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f87a1525 Theme-Based Modes are broad in scope and can be used for those who don’t feel that theming their time through Daily or Horizontal Themes can work for them because of their schedule. Essentially they map out well with (or even mirror) your Daily Themes, so if you are using those then they act as a great bridge from what you see on your calendar (the "directory of your day") to your to do list (the "details of your day").

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Theme-Based Modes are broad in scope and can be used for those who don’t feel that theming their time through Daily or Horizontal Themes can work for them because of their schedule. Essentially they map out well with (or even mirror) your Daily Themes, so if you are using those then they act as a great bridge from what you see on your calendar (the "directory of your day") to your to do list (the "details of your day").

Want to dive deeper into Mode-Based Work and get a broad overview of the elements of TimeCrafting? Then check out The Productivityist Playbook.

]]> Mon, 04 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 In this first in a series of episodes where I focus on the TimeCrafting concept of "Mode-Based Work" I reveal the first category of mode-based work: Theme-Based Modes. In this first in a series of episodes where I focus on the TimeCrafting concept of "Mode-Based Work" I reveal the first category of mode-based work: Theme-Based Modes. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Weekly Sprint 38 38 The Weekly Sprint full ea14b75a-3b6d-4ff0-aa84-a7b10673f833 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4979ff1a (This is more of a tactical episode than usual, but here we go...)

In this episode I describe what a Weekly Sprint is, how to use it in conjunction with other elements of TimeCrafting (such as Daily and Monthly Themes), and when you may want to set aside a week for one of these ultra-focused and targeted productivity tactic.

You might be wondering what a "multipotentialite" is since I mention it during this episode. I've got you covered here.

]]> (This is more of a tactical episode than usual, but here we go...)

In this episode I describe what a Weekly Sprint is, how to use it in conjunction with other elements of TimeCrafting (such as Daily and Monthly Themes), and when you may want to set aside a week for one of these ultra-focused and targeted productivity tactic.

You might be wondering what a "multipotentialite" is since I mention it during this episode. I've got you covered here.

]]> Sun, 03 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 There comes a time when you need to give your overarching focus and attention to one particular goal, project, or initiative over a short period time. (Say, a week.) This when you can use an element of TimeCrafting known as a Weekly Sprint. There comes a time when you need to give your overarching focus and attention to one particular goal, project, or initiative over a short period time. (Say, a week.) This when you can use an element of TimeCrafting known as a Weekly Sprint. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No What Minimalism Is 37 37 What Minimalism Is full cab3d1d0-099f-4129-a2e8-b04dd09eaf9b https://share.transistor.fm/s/4bcce5ad What exactly is minimalism? What do you think it is? Are you tired of hearing about it from mainstream media and popular blogs? Today I'll share with you what minimalism actually is and help you figure out if it's something you really want to pursue.

]]> What exactly is minimalism? What do you think it is? Are you tired of hearing about it from mainstream media and popular blogs? Today I'll share with you what minimalism actually is and help you figure out if it's something you really want to pursue.

]]> Sat, 02 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Minimalism is still a hot topic in the productivity space and while I can appreciate what it has to offer, I don't like how it gets misrepresented and misconstrued. I talk about this during this episode. Minimalism is still a hot topic in the productivity space and while I can appreciate what it has to offer, I don't like how it gets misrepresented and misconstrued. I talk about this during this episode. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No On Accountability 36 36 On Accountability full a369a80f-f908-4835-9941-6577ae566e91 https://share.transistor.fm/s/293e7602 Why have I started the Total TimeCrafting membership community? Why have I started to simplify my coaching offerings? A lot of it boils down to being able to offer more accountability to my clients and community.

There are several different ways you can be held accountable – either through others or by setting up something from your "past" self. I speak to all of this during this episode, so take some notes so that you can start to craft some levels accountability.

Want to learn more about Total TimeCrafting? Go here.

]]> Why have I started the Total TimeCrafting membership community? Why have I started to simplify my coaching offerings? A lot of it boils down to being able to offer more accountability to my clients and community.

There are several different ways you can be held accountable – either through others or by setting up something from your "past" self. I speak to all of this during this episode, so take some notes so that you can start to craft some levels accountability.

Want to learn more about Total TimeCrafting? Go here.

]]> Fri, 01 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Stephen Covey once said, "Accountability breeds response-ability." Today I'm going to discuss the idea of accountability and the different forms it can take. Stephen Covey once said, "Accountability breeds response-ability." Today I'm going to discuss the idea of accountability and the different forms it can take. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Difference Between Training and Learning 35 35 The Difference Between Training and Learning full dfef69af-989f-49b6-bf41-14117e623893 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8d74a73e Sometimes a word or phrase you've been using to inspire action or motivate you stops doing both of those things. It's easy to chalk it up to a systemic failure of the framework or methodology you're using, but sometimes it's as simple as finding a word or phrase that resonates with you more. Today I'll share with you an example of this happening to me and what I did to make my Thursdays matter more.

You can read the Training vs Learning post I mention in this episode here.

]]> Sometimes a word or phrase you've been using to inspire action or motivate you stops doing both of those things. It's easy to chalk it up to a systemic failure of the framework or methodology you're using, but sometimes it's as simple as finding a word or phrase that resonates with you more. Today I'll share with you an example of this happening to me and what I did to make my Thursdays matter more.

You can read the Training vs Learning post I mention in this episode here.

]]> Thu, 28 Feb 2019 16:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 I used to have Thursdays earmarked as my Training Day, but recently I needed to make shift in the wording. Why? I'll share that with you in this episode. I used to have Thursdays earmarked as my Training Day, but recently I needed to make shift in the wording. Why? I'll share that with you in this episode. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Midweek Manifesto 34 34 The Midweek Manifesto full 282490c5-67cd-431e-adb5-a421c4b88b3a https://share.transistor.fm/s/36a2e87a Here’s The Midweek Manifesto as I wrote it for WorkAwesome several years ago:

My mission is to reflect on the beginning of the week, see what I’ve not done and reboot it and see what I’ve done and celebrate it. Looking forward, I will take what’s left to be done and do it. With the rest of my plans I will stand firm. I’ll add tasks as I need and make sure that I heed my own voice. The voice that tells me, “I must get to complete.”


There is something about doing a triage in the middle of the week that helps the rest of the week seem more…doable. This midweek cleanup really gets me back to a place where I can move forward with more intention and attention than if I’d simply let the plan for the week lie as initially set. I also trust The Midweek Manifesto as an accountability exercise because this exercise allows me to see the whole rather than just a part of my tasks and obligations. The Midweek Manifesto somehow makes “Hump Day” just another day. Give it a try for yourself.

See you later.

]]> Here’s The Midweek Manifesto as I wrote it for WorkAwesome several years ago:

My mission is to reflect on the beginning of the week, see what I’ve not done and reboot it and see what I’ve done and celebrate it. Looking forward, I will take what’s left to be done and do it. With the rest of my plans I will stand firm. I’ll add tasks as I need and make sure that I heed my own voice. The voice that tells me, “I must get to complete.”


There is something about doing a triage in the middle of the week that helps the rest of the week seem more…doable. This midweek cleanup really gets me back to a place where I can move forward with more intention and attention than if I’d simply let the plan for the week lie as initially set. I also trust The Midweek Manifesto as an accountability exercise because this exercise allows me to see the whole rather than just a part of my tasks and obligations. The Midweek Manifesto somehow makes “Hump Day” just another day. Give it a try for yourself.

See you later.

]]> Wed, 27 Feb 2019 04:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Back in 2010, I penned something I called The Midweek Manifesto. I didn’t dive into what it meant all that much back then. I simply wrote it and posted it. But as the conventional work week comes to a close here, I felt it was time to revisit its origin and meaning. Not just for you…but for me. Back in 2010, I penned something I called The Midweek Manifesto. I didn’t dive into what it meant all that much back then. I simply wrote it and posted it. But as the conventional work week comes to a close here, I felt it was time to revisit its origin a time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Why You Need to Give Yourself a Rest 33 33 Why You Need to Give Yourself a Rest full 3dcdee3e-d800-45bd-aace-0c75c5a25246 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0085dfff Today I'll talk about the importance of "real" rest. The idea of "small sabbaticals" can be a form of this. So can taking a Monthly Theme and making rest an overarching focus during a month (or more). We need more rest. Today I'll discuss this.

Further listening: Small Scale Sabbaticals from seanwes

]]> Today I'll talk about the importance of "real" rest. The idea of "small sabbaticals" can be a form of this. So can taking a Monthly Theme and making rest an overarching focus during a month (or more). We need more rest. Today I'll discuss this.

Further listening: Small Scale Sabbaticals from seanwes

]]> Tue, 26 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 Rest comes in many shapes and sizes. Sometimes it's hidden in plain sight and other times it's hard to find anywhere. Rest comes in many shapes and sizes. Sometimes it's hidden in plain sight and other times it's hard to find anywhere. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Beyond Consistency: All You Need is Just a Little of This 32 32 Beyond Consistency: All You Need is Just a Little of This full 4114cd99-b86b-4aaa-af61-a1ac561e9cc1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/48b0574c Making 3MoT and all of the content I do every week involves consistency. But it also requires patience. Patience and productivity aren't things we normally hear about in tandem, but I think it's about time we do. So I'm doing that today.

]]> Making 3MoT and all of the content I do every week involves consistency. But it also requires patience. Patience and productivity aren't things we normally hear about in tandem, but I think it's about time we do. So I'm doing that today.

]]> Mon, 25 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 "Take it slow and things will be just fine. You and I'll just use a little..." These lyrics came to mind this week as I prepared this episode of 3MoT. "Take it slow and things will be just fine. You and I'll just use a little..." These lyrics came to mind this week as I prepared this episode of 3MoT. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Difference Between Your Calendar and Your To Do List 31 31 The Difference Between Your Calendar and Your To Do List full bdbe69ab-f1a0-4c7e-891f-887dd8b92fe5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/243f5bff I talk about the relationship between the calendar and the to do list, most notably when it comes to TimeCrafting, and walk you through how I know what goes where and when to look at what.

For more on this, check out my blog post about The Daily CT Scan.

]]> I talk about the relationship between the calendar and the to do list, most notably when it comes to TimeCrafting, and walk you through how I know what goes where and when to look at what.

For more on this, check out my blog post about The Daily CT Scan.

]]> Sun, 24 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 178 "What should I put on my calendar and what should I put on my to do list?" This is a question I get asked a lot. So today I'm going to answer it. "What should I put on my calendar and what should I put on my to do list?" This is a question I get asked a lot. So today I'm going to answer it. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How I Make WAVES Using Analog Tools 30 30 How I Make WAVES Using Analog Tools full 431f10bc-8814-4999-ae8b-d2c6ccce0d7d https://share.transistor.fm/s/0a97c4fa I’m also using analog tools to track this. I talk about my approach during this episode, with the aim that it’ll help you do something similar - something that works for you.

]]> I’m also using analog tools to track this. I talk about my approach during this episode, with the aim that it’ll help you do something similar - something that works for you.

]]> Sat, 23 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 I’m trying to make WAVES every single day. I’ve covered that a bit in my first IGTV video. I’m trying to make WAVES every single day. I’ve covered that a bit in my first IGTV video. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Do What You Can with What You Have 29 29 Do What You Can with What You Have full 6fa9b5a5-a236-468a-a5fe-dc704480eddf https://share.transistor.fm/s/7b347fec On this episode I'll dig deeper into the idea of doing what you can with what you have (and where you are). I'll offer some practical examples with the hopes that you can take this advice and use it in your own way.

]]> On this episode I'll dig deeper into the idea of doing what you can with what you have (and where you are). I'll offer some practical examples with the hopes that you can take this advice and use it in your own way.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 You can only have so much control of your time and surroundings. On some occasions you need to do something and the resources just aren't ideal. You can only have so much control of your time and surroundings. On some occasions you need to do something and the resources just aren't ideal. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Finding Your Baseline for a Productive Day 28 28 Finding Your Baseline for a Productive Day full 7501b793-1c92-409e-80a4-e77cc0efa88b https://share.transistor.fm/s/1ea1ec6a I’m sharing something new that I’m doing - using the acronym WAVES to make sure that I have a baseline for a productive day. What does WAVES mean? How can you use something similar? Listen and find out!

]]> I’m sharing something new that I’m doing - using the acronym WAVES to make sure that I have a baseline for a productive day. What does WAVES mean? How can you use something similar? Listen and find out!

]]> Thu, 21 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 There’s a difference between doing the bare minimum for the day and making sure that you’re doing the right things before the day comes to a close. There’s a difference between doing the bare minimum for the day and making sure that you’re doing the right things before the day comes to a close. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Why Frameworks Foster Freedom 27 27 Why Frameworks Foster Freedom full 1431ec65-3f2c-458d-9c7f-64e55ae7d2ca https://share.transistor.fm/s/496fbf3c Over the course of this podcast episode I’ll share with you why you shouldn’t fear frameworks but rather put them in place so that you can have the flexibility and freedom that you deserve to have every day.

]]> Over the course of this podcast episode I’ll share with you why you shouldn’t fear frameworks but rather put them in place so that you can have the flexibility and freedom that you deserve to have every day.

]]> Wed, 20 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 The title of this episode is a quote I throw around as often as possible. Why? It’s because many people consider frameworks to be a source of friction rather than freedom. The title of this episode is a quote I throw around as often as possible. Why? It’s because many people consider frameworks to be a source of friction rather than freedom. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Why I'm Doing a Daily Podcast 26 26 Why I'm Doing a Daily Podcast full a22c18d0-98ba-4cad-8692-d900df08e6e8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9fc3e636 Rather than write about it or make a video to explain my motivations, I figured it'd be fitting to share my reasoning with you on this podcast. That way you hear everything about it from me in no more than three minutes.

]]> Rather than write about it or make a video to explain my motivations, I figured it'd be fitting to share my reasoning with you on this podcast. That way you hear everything about it from me in no more than three minutes.

]]> Tue, 19 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 It's no secret that I've got plenty going on and I've dropped the ball on things from time to time because of that. That's why I have been asked one question more often than not about this new podcast: Why are you doing it? It's no secret that I've got plenty going on and I've dropped the ball on things from time to time because of that. That's why I have been asked one question more often than not about this new podcast: Why are you doing it? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How to Help Your Week Behave Better 25 25 How to Help Your Week Behave Better full ed678bf5-702a-4021-bba5-a1e0fa12c5a3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f3a969f7 On this episode I’ll share with you the one trick I’ve put in place that has helped me keep my week from misbehaving and spiraling out of control before it gets underway.

]]> On this episode I’ll share with you the one trick I’ve put in place that has helped me keep my week from misbehaving and spiraling out of control before it gets underway.

]]> Mon, 18 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 180 Have you ever felt your week get away from you before it even really got started? You’re not the only one. Have you ever felt your week get away from you before it even really got started? You’re not the only one. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Daily Theming: How to Get Started 24 24 Daily Theming: How to Get Started full 16281778-3b81-4836-aabc-3e15cfd59840 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9bb086c6 So if you’ve wanted to start the practice of Daily Theming then this is the episode for you. I don’t just reveal one of  the simplest ways to get started but also how you can make these daily themes don’t want to skip these three minutes!

]]> So if you’ve wanted to start the practice of Daily Theming then this is the episode for you. I don’t just reveal one of  the simplest ways to get started but also how you can make these daily themes don’t want to skip these three minutes!

]]> Sun, 17 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 One of the questions I get asked a lot is how someone get started with Daily Theming. It’s not all that hard to do, but it does require commitment and an openness to a new way of thinking. One of the questions I get asked a lot is how someone get started with Daily Theming. It’s not all that hard to do, but it does require commitment and an openness to a new way of thinking. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Why Theming Your Days Saves Time with Your Kids 23 23 Why Theming Your Days Saves Time with Your Kids full db9aa30a-1929-424d-99cb-d0d363536f30 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bcc2b2c8 I believe the simplicity of Daily Theming has played a role in this. Today I’ll share with you one of the ways that giving each of my days a theme has helped me save time with my kids. 

]]> I believe the simplicity of Daily Theming has played a role in this. Today I’ll share with you one of the ways that giving each of my days a theme has helped me save time with my kids. 

]]> Sat, 16 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 When I started to theme my days I didn’t realize the indirect ways it would help me in my life. For example, the notion that it would help in the realm of parenting. When I started to theme my days I didn’t realize the indirect ways it would help me in my life. For example, the notion that it would help in the realm of parenting. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How I Get Deep Work Done on Friday 22 22 How I Get Deep Work Done on Friday full 18601166-c646-415f-a8b4-3c5486f42eb0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6591ac11 Today I’ll share with you how you can take a day where attention and energy usually wanes and turn it into a day where deep work happens.

]]> Today I’ll share with you how you can take a day where attention and energy usually wanes and turn it into a day where deep work happens.

]]> Fri, 15 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 You wouldn’t think that Friday would be a good day to get deep and focused work done. But I’ve managed to make that day work for me in that way. You wouldn’t think that Friday would be a good day to get deep and focused work done. But I’ve managed to make that day work for me in that way. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Thoughts on Delegating and Discovery 21 21 Thoughts on Delegating and Discovery full e84668a2-d81f-45bb-9156-0db6abe5c568 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6a103076 So today I'm going to share my insights on the ebb and flow between spending time and attention on discovering things you want to learn about and when you should invest that time elsewhere and delegate instead. It's a conversation I have with myself every time I find something I'd like to know more about and I've got some tactics to offer you that I use to help me make better decisions on what to pursue on my own and what to pursue with the help of another.

]]> So today I'm going to share my insights on the ebb and flow between spending time and attention on discovering things you want to learn about and when you should invest that time elsewhere and delegate instead. It's a conversation I have with myself every time I find something I'd like to know more about and I've got some tactics to offer you that I use to help me make better decisions on what to pursue on my own and what to pursue with the help of another.

]]> Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 As I begin recording these episodes on a new audio device, I had a thought: Do I even need to be doing this? Can't I just outsource the production? Why am I spending time discovering instead of simply delegating this kind of thing? As I begin recording these episodes on a new audio device, I had a thought: Do I even need to be doing this? Can't I just outsource the production? Why am I spending time discovering instead of simply delegating this kind of thing? time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Taking Triggers to Task 20 20 Taking Triggers to Task full 85581932-4cfd-49a1-aac4-ed693c7497b6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/076e810d You see, if I simply left that message in my mind alone then I wouldn’t be able to do anything with it - like take action on it in a progressive way. Today I’ll share with you how I took this “trigger” to task and how you can do the same.

]]> You see, if I simply left that message in my mind alone then I wouldn’t be able to do anything with it - like take action on it in a progressive way. Today I’ll share with you how I took this “trigger” to task and how you can do the same.

]]> Wed, 13 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 182 I looked out my window and it sent a single message to my mind. But that’s not how I left it. I looked out my window and it sent a single message to my mind. But that’s not how I left it. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No A Better Way to Travel: Part Two 19 19 A Better Way to Travel: Part Two full 5e63de6f-1beb-4877-8e1e-d9d6cb26d1c0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2e16422a In this second part of a brief series on traveling better, I discuss  what you can do with those things you can control that can make your entire travel experience better.

]]> In this second part of a brief series on traveling better, I discuss  what you can do with those things you can control that can make your entire travel experience better.

]]> Tue, 12 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 There are only so many things you can control when you travel. Yet sometimes we fret over the things we have no control over and that affects how we deal with those things we can control. There are only so many things you can control when you travel. Yet sometimes we fret over the things we have no control over and that affects how we deal with those things we can control. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No A Better Way to Travel: Part One 18 18 A Better Way to Travel: Part One full 97459df2-a2ee-44d7-9308-dea9c624d128 https://share.transistor.fm/s/865848f9 On this first episode of a two-part series I share something you can do to make your travel experience a little bit better.

]]> On this first episode of a two-part series I share something you can do to make your travel experience a little bit better.

]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Traveling can be stressful. (I’m actually penning this after one such travel experience.) But you can mitigate some of that stress if you’re willing. Traveling can be stressful. (I’m actually penning this after one such travel experience.) But you can mitigate some of that stress if you’re willing. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Newton: The App That Rose From the Dead 17 17 Newton: The App That Rose From the Dead full c0efde2a-0787-426c-8816-0b5a14823541 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8f48fca5 Furthermore, I want to let you know whether or not I plan to go back to the app. I’ll reveal my plans and offer insights on productivity and time management apps overall.

]]> Furthermore, I want to let you know whether or not I plan to go back to the app. I’ll reveal my plans and offer insights on productivity and time management apps overall.

]]> Sun, 10 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 The email app I used to use has risen from the grave. This doesn’t happen very often in the world of apps, so I wanted to draw attention to that. The email app I used to use has risen from the grave. This doesn’t happen very often in the world of apps, so I wanted to draw attention to that. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Why You Should Embrace the Concept of "Mise en Place" 16 16 Why You Should Embrace the Concept of "Mise en Place" full fb2f8007-02dd-43d5-ae08-f9a7ad8bb054 https://share.transistor.fm/s/110f3f6d The concept of “mise en place” isn’t just something you can explore in your kitchen, either. I’ll share with you Why the practice works and offer ways you can integrate it into your everyday life.

]]> The concept of “mise en place” isn’t just something you can explore in your kitchen, either. I’ll share with you Why the practice works and offer ways you can integrate it into your everyday life.

]]> Sat, 09 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 If you’ve ever found yourself spending more time setting up than you’d like, so much so that you feel it’s taking up valuable executing time, then you should consider adopting the mindset used by many professional chefs. If you’ve ever found yourself spending more time setting up than you’d like, so much so that you feel it’s taking up valuable executing time, then you should consider adopting the mindset used by many professional chefs. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How to (Productively) Read the News 15 15 How to (Productively) Read the News full 5f1ea23f-9b62-47e4-ae23-2d5274a50b1f https://share.transistor.fm/s/c7800b18 This time on 3MoT I share with you a way to read the news in a more productive manner. This isn't about eliminating news from your life, it's about being more intentional with how you absorb it so that it doesn't steal your attention when you don't want it – and don't expect it – to.

]]> This time on 3MoT I share with you a way to read the news in a more productive manner. This isn't about eliminating news from your life, it's about being more intentional with how you absorb it so that it doesn't steal your attention when you don't want it – and don't expect it – to.

]]> Fri, 08 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 No matter where you look, you'll find news. Some of it is imperative for you to know in order to make your way through the day while a portion of it actually keeps you from doing that altogether. No matter where you look, you'll find news. Some of it is imperative for you to know in order to make your way through the day while a portion of it actually keeps you from doing that altogether. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No The Key to Setting Boundaries 14 14 The Key to Setting Boundaries full d69b455a-fc5f-43f9-b987-8419665aeb19 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cf908dbe On this edition of 3MoT I offer up the key to setting boundaries so that you'll know how to put them in place...and keep them there.

]]> On this edition of 3MoT I offer up the key to setting boundaries so that you'll know how to put them in place...and keep them there.

]]> Thu, 07 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Boundaries are a critical component when you're trying to craft your time and shape your days. But not everyone knows how to create them in a way that works over the long haul. Boundaries are a critical component when you're trying to craft your time and shape your days. But not everyone knows how to create them in a way that works over the long haul. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How to Make Self Care Part of Your Personal Productivity 13 13 How to Make Self Care Part of Your Personal Productivity full 5680f659-ffac-4947-af61-1c166ea471ca https://share.transistor.fm/s/19303966 If you want to make the most of your days, weeks, and months then you need to keep self care in mind all along the way. In this episode I talk about why this is so important and offer a few things you can do that may seem small and trivial at first but can pay off with great productivity dividends in the future.

]]> If you want to make the most of your days, weeks, and months then you need to keep self care in mind all along the way. In this episode I talk about why this is so important and offer a few things you can do that may seem small and trivial at first but can pay off with great productivity dividends in the future.

]]> Wed, 06 Feb 2019 12:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Most of us don't think about making the time to take care of oursevles as critical to our personal productivity. But that's simply not true. Most of us don't think about making the time to take care of oursevles as critical to our personal productivity. But that's simply not true. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No How to Work Productively When You're Sick 12 12 How to Work Productively When You're Sick full 12fe4cc7-0989-4980-bf88-a9649e3e6386 https://share.transistor.fm/s/27415c27 Today I'm going to share with you something simple that I do that allows me to move the needle on my to do list when I'm feeling under the weather.

]]> Today I'm going to share with you something simple that I do that allows me to move the needle on my to do list when I'm feeling under the weather.

]]> Tue, 05 Feb 2019 14:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 181 Being sick is not fun. Whether it's a cold or worse, having to deal with being ill and still trying to get things done is challenging to say the least. Being sick is not fun. Whether it's a cold or worse, having to deal with being ill and still trying to get things done is challenging to say the least. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Why You Need to Make Time to Sit with Feedback 11 11 Why You Need to Make Time to Sit with Feedback full ea3bb813-9426-4abf-adbd-818be6c90df7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2276551f Today I share with you how I sit with feedback, giving a specific example of not only how I made that happen but why doing so helped bring this daily podcast back to life.

]]> Today I share with you how I sit with feedback, giving a specific example of not only how I made that happen but why doing so helped bring this daily podcast back to life.

]]> Mon, 04 Feb 2019 12:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 We all get feedback. Some of it is welcome, some not. But no matter what, we can't just make a note of it. We need to sit with it so that we can use it. We all get feedback. Some of it is welcome, some not. But no matter what, we can't just make a note of it. We need to sit with it so that we can use it. time management, prioritization, mindfulness, tactics, productivity, tips No How to Leverage Occasions to Reboot Your Year 10 10 How to Leverage Occasions to Reboot Your Year full 3bb8a1e0-0125-41d4-987a-10ceb1e2b406 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b8fd5fc6 During this episode I share some insights on how you can take an occasion that matters to you and use it to redesign, rebuild, and reclaim the months ahead.

]]> During this episode I share some insights on how you can take an occasion that matters to you and use it to redesign, rebuild, and reclaim the months ahead.

]]> Sun, 03 Feb 2019 15:30:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 179 Today marks the return of the daily podcast and I found it fitting to do so on the day following a day that holds special significance to me. Today marks the return of the daily podcast and I found it fitting to do so on the day following a day that holds special significance to me. time management, productivity, meaning, leverage, goals No March 14, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 9 9 March 14, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full 5a445985-f6e8-e0e8-fb5b-34188bb75a5c https://share.transistor.fm/s/d505e01e Wed, 14 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 194 On this episode I have a little fun on National Pi Day, spending time discussing some "productivity math." On this episode I have a little fun on National Pi Day, spending time discussing some "productivity math." time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No March 13, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 8 8 March 13, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full 6d102ae7-1850-9063-e946-3a1336eb9c4a https://share.transistor.fm/s/6f44365a Tue, 13 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 199 On this episode I share some changes I've made recently to my Daily and Horizontal Themes and offer insights about tweaking and fiddling with workflows. On this episode I share some changes I've made recently to my Daily and Horizontal Themes and offer insights about tweaking and fiddling with workflows. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No March 12, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 7 7 March 12, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full d826d3ca-5f7c-3b67-3dff-14e25f914401 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7ba28be2 Mon, 12 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 196 On this episode I talk about Todoist's Facebook ads targeting Wunderlist and why I have a hard time answering what seems like a simple question about to do list apps. On this episode I talk about Todoist's Facebook ads targeting Wunderlist and why I have a hard time answering what seems like a simple question about to do list apps. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No March 11, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 6 6 March 11, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full 61fcb349-602f-e401-309f-20c4598f75f6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/83a73406 Sun, 11 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0700 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 197 On this episode I talk about Mondays and why you might have a better option as your first day of the work week. On this episode I talk about Mondays and why you might have a better option as your first day of the work week. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No March 10, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 5 5 March 10, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full b079a947-d950-578a-02ac-aa9249163afb https://share.transistor.fm/s/b0df4ff7 Sat, 10 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 197 On this episode I talk about the leap forward to Daylight Saving (not "Savings") Time, its effects on your body clock, and how you can deal with those effects. On this episode I talk about the leap forward to Daylight Saving (not "Savings") Time, its effects on your body clock, and how you can deal with those effects. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No March 9, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 4 4 March 9, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full 6d883d52-885f-77d1-026a-709fefc89397 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1bdc4432 Fri, 09 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 199 On this episode I talk about how one agency is using a hotel industry practice to stave off interruptions and how you can do the same through setting small but effective boundaries. On this episode I talk about how one agency is using a hotel industry practice to stave off interruptions and how you can do the same through setting small but effective boundaries. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No March 8, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 3 3 March 8, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full b14943fd-537e-0a5a-78f8-ea87d9351cf0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/775191e1 On this episode of the show, I talk about the findings in a recent survey that was conducted on the effect of switching apps throughout the day in the workplace. I offer my own insights and ideas on how to combat those effects as well.


LINKS

  • Ladders: https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/69-of-employees-waste-one-month-a-year-on-workplace-apps

  • The Mode That Helps Your Productivity Take Flight: https://productivityist.com/productivity-take-flight/

  • The Daily CT Scan: https://productivityist.com/the-daily-ct-scan/

  • How to Be Productive When You’re Sick and Tired: https://productivityist.com/tiredproductivity/
]]> On this episode of the show, I talk about the findings in a recent survey that was conducted on the effect of switching apps throughout the day in the workplace. I offer my own insights and ideas on how to combat those effects as well.


LINKS

  • Ladders: https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/69-of-employees-waste-one-month-a-year-on-workplace-apps

  • The Mode That Helps Your Productivity Take Flight: https://productivityist.com/productivity-take-flight/

  • The Daily CT Scan: https://productivityist.com/the-daily-ct-scan/

  • How to Be Productive When You’re Sick and Tired: https://productivityist.com/tiredproductivity/
]]> Thu, 08 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 197 On this episode of the show, I talk about the findings in a recent survey that was conducted on the effect of switching apps throughout the day in the workplace. I offer my own insights and ideas on how to combat those effects as well. LINKS Ladders: https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/69-of-employees-waste-one-month-a-year-on-workplace-apps The Mode That Helps Your Productivity Take Flight: https://productivityist.com/productivity-take-flight/ The Daily CT Scan: https://productivityist.com/the-daily-ct-scan/ How to Be Productive When You’re Sick and Tired: https://productivityist.com/tiredproductivity/ On this episode of the show, I talk about the findings in a recent survey that was conducted on the effect of switching apps throughout the day in the workplace. I offer my own insights and ideas on how to combat those effects as well. LINKS Ladders: h time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No March 7, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting 2 2 March 7, 2018: Three Minutes of TimeCrafting full 89039aec-e9e9-5828-26d8-dcbaa112991d https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7d1f788 Wed, 07 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 199 On this episode of the show I talk about the most productive thing I do when attending conferences, share an update to a productivity app that I have a particular soft spot for, and reveal a new way I'm getting my administrative tasks done. On this episode of the show I talk about the most productive thing I do when attending conferences, share an update to a productivity app that I have a particular soft spot for, and reveal a new way I'm getting my administrative tasks done. time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No Welcome to Three Minutes of TimeCrafting! 1 1 Welcome to Three Minutes of TimeCrafting! full 4a18dee7-dcd3-6e6d-5ab9-b1d2e007129b https://share.transistor.fm/s/486df575 Tue, 06 Mar 2018 15:49:42 -0800 Mike Vardy Mike Vardy 78 In this one-minute long episode of the show, I fill you in on what you can expect from the show every single day. I hope you'll join me! In this one-minute long episode of the show, I fill you in on what you can expect from the show every single day. I hope you'll join me! time management, productivity, attention, intention, focus No