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Saya Ardi, Kamu?'s avatar

"That’s why hoarding knowledge feels amazing, while actually applying it feels uncomfortable."

This sentence describes me perfectly right now.

I've been aware of this cycle for about a year, I think. But when I look back, I realize I've built an almost unlimited backlog of books to read, skills to learn, and ideas to try. Instead of moving me forward, it often leaves me frustrated because I don't know where to start.

Recently, I decided to start small by reading at least one article from my Substack subscriptions each day. By coincidence, that habit brought me here. The title sitting above the fold on my monitor instantly caught my attention.

Thank you for writing this. It made me realize that this syndrome doesn't happen only to me. After reading it, I want to spend less time preparing and more time practicing.

Maybe procrastination has evolved. We don't avoid work anymore, we hide behind preparation 👀

Brian • The Tiny Wisdom's avatar

Understanding that you're doing something wrong is the first step. The next step is to actually do something to end the cycle. Good job, Ardi!

Happy to hear that you found this post helpful. I wish you all the best.

Neutral Yoga Daphne's avatar

"Collecting the illusion of progress" is such a powerful way to describe how we trick our brains into feeling productive just by planning or buying books. Your advice to break this loop with just two minutes of actual practice is the exact reminder we need to choose action over preparation.

Brian • The Tiny Wisdom's avatar

Thank you for reading and for the comment. Wholeheartedly agree with your take. We often mistook preparation with action!

mels's avatar

I am exactly in this era of my life. Want to productive and already had a plan about what i am gonnna do but still ended up with nothing and feels like i am doing my best because i think when i having the plans its means that i am productive, but the fact having plans without action is nothing :((

Brian • The Tiny Wisdom's avatar

It's ok! Understanding that you need to actually do something is the first step. And most people don't want to admit it. So you're already doing great. Hopefully you can finally take action and do something about your plans. All the best!

Rahul Chowdhury's avatar

Love this line: "collecting the illusion of progress."

Brian • The Tiny Wisdom's avatar

Thanks my friend, gotta learn it the hard way :)