Among other things, The 80/20 Principle, one of my favorite books on the subject, tells us to “pursue those few things where you are amazingly better than others and that you enjoy most.” Do them to the exclusion of other things you’re not as good at.
Another author puts it this way: “Do very few things, but be awesome at them.”
To do this, you must work on your strengths, not your weaknesses. Figure out what you do best and find ways to do it even better.
I do a lot of writing. It’s one of my strengths. I invest in getting better at it by reading books and blogs about writing, watching videos, listening to podcasts, and making sure I work at it every day.
I also invest in tools that help me write better and faster. I’ve mentioned Scrivener before and told you that I now do all my long-form writing in it.
I got a new chair recently that helps me sit longer. It helps me get more writing done because I don’t need to take as many breaks.
Yesterday, I went out and looked at mechanical keyboards. (They’re in the “gaming” section.) I’ve been reading about these for awhile and I’m about ready to order one. I’m told they help you type faster and with fewer typos. They also last longer than the rubber membrane keyboards found on most laptops and computer desktops. I like the tactile feel of these keyboards, and the clicky sound they make. (You can get ones that don’t make that sound, if you prefer.)
After that, I’ll probably look at external monitors. A bigger screen will allow me to look at two documents at one time, instead of having to switch back and forth. Maybe dual monitors is the thing.
For a long time now, I’ve been using the track pad on my laptop. I might start using a mouse again.
It’s all about getting that edge. Making a good thing even better.
How about you? What do you do best? How are you investing in yourself to get better?
