Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout

by Cal Newport

But recall that busy Jane Austen was neither happy nor producing memorable work, while unburdened Jane Austen, writing contently at quiet Chawton cottage, transformed English literature.

our brains work better when we’re not rushing.

The boundary between Miranda’s slow but steady creative production and straight-up procrastination is worrisomely narrow.

My long-term plan enabled me to embrace this slower development as a writer. I could explore without feeling like I had given up.

Hardwood grows slowly.

Give yourself enough time to produce something great, but not unlimited time.

Progress is what matters. Not perfection.