Mentor Advice

From Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Ah, the challenge of being one's own taskmaster! I conducted much of my work from home — writing, inventing, corresponding — and I'll share what I learned. First, establish ritual. I began each morning with the same question: "What good shall I do this day?" And each evening: "What good have I done today?" This bookending creates structure when external structure is absent. Your mind needs signals that work has begun and work has ended. Second, dress for labor. I don't mean formal attire, but change out of your sleeping clothes. The body follows physical cues. When you dress as if work is serious, your mind takes it seriously. Third, create separation. Designate a space for work, even if it's merely a particular chair. Do not work in your bed — you'll neither work well nor sleep well. The places we associate with rest should remain restful. Fourth, schedule your weaknesses. I knew I was prone to distraction in the afternoons, so I reserved mornings for my most demanding thinking. Know thyself, as the ancients said. Finally, do not mistake motion for progress. Ten minutes of focused thought often accomplishes more than an hour of distracted busyness. Work in concentrated bursts, then step outside and take air. Even Poor Richard needed his walks.