My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Momentum Through Small Actions
Starting big projects with the smallest possible action to build psychological momentum, rather than waiting until you feel ready to tackle the whole thing.
Decision Rule
When facing a large, overwhelming task, identify the tiniest possible step you can take right now and do it immediately.
How It Works
Small completions create a sense of progress and capability, reducing the psychological resistance to continuing. Each small action proves you can make progress, building confidence for larger steps.
Failure Modes
Getting stuck on small actions and never progressing to bigger ones
Mistaking busy work for meaningful progress
Using small actions as procrastination from important but difficult tasks
Not connecting small actions to larger meaningful goals
Example Decision
“Instead of trying to plan your entire year at once, you start by cleaning out just the cup holder in your car, which creates momentum and makes the bigger planning session feel more manageable.”
Related Knowledge
We don't lack time, we lack a system
Time management problems are really system problems that can be solved with better frameworks and processes
Boredom is essential for creativity and development
Constantly stimulating children (and adults) may harm their creative development and problem-solving abilities
Itzler Annual Planning System
A three-step system for intentional year planning: getting light (decluttering), closing out the previous year (reflection and gratitude), and setting one year-defining goal (misogi).
Calendar as Autobiography Framework
Viewing your calendar as your most honest autobiography and highlight reel - what you put energy toward reveals your true priorities and creates the story of your life.
Create mental and physical space for the new year by eliminating clutter and unused commitments
Coming into the new year feeling light, organized, and ready to take action without the weight of accumulated clutter and obligations.
Create a comprehensive review of the past year to identify accomplishments, gaps, and lessons learned
A one-page summary of your year's highlights that makes you feel proud of what you accomplished and clear about what you want to do differently.