In my last reflection, I identified several key challenges affecting my ability to complete projects, including distractions, lack of structure, and emotional blocks. I made plans to overcome these so that I can focus on what I want to achieve as part of my 12-week plan. While I haven’t yet completed all the projects outlined, I have made significant progress on multiple fronts. However, I’ve realised that constantly switching between projects may be slowing me down.
Focusing on One Project at a Time
A major insight from the past few weeks is that momentum is crucial. Rather than shifting between multiple projects, I will focus on completing one at a time. This will allow me to put my full cognitive weight behind each task, making execution more efficient. It should also help with motivation, as seeing tangible progress in one area will likely encourage me to move forward with the next.
A potential refinement to this approach is to structure my projects into well-defined phases. For instance, instead of aiming to complete an entire project in one go, I could break it into core milestones (e.g., “Get the first version live” or “Draft key content”), ensuring that I move towards completion in a structured way without feeling overwhelmed.
Reassessing My Relationship with Crypto
I initially dabbled in crypto to explore whether it could generate additional income. While I’ve made some gains, I’ve also made poor decisions. More importantly, the mental effort required to analyse market trends and macroeconomic factors outweighs the returns.
Moving forward, I will limit crypto price checks to once per day and ensure stop losses are properly set to reduce the need for constant monitoring. I’ll also delete any related apps from my phone to prevent habitual checking.
Looking at the bigger picture, crypto is unlikely to provide life-changing gains unless I go all in—which conflicts with my other priorities. Instead, my energy is better spent on completing and flipping projects that could generate more meaningful returns. This is an important shift in mindset: instead of seeking small, incremental financial wins, I should focus on projects that could deliver significant long-term value.
I will plan my exit from crypto after the current bull run is over.
Starting My Day with the Right Routine
I’ve noticed that my mornings aren’t setting me up for peak productivity. Right now, I sit down at my computer too soon, which means I don’t properly transition into work mode.
To fix this, I’ll implement a structured morning routine, ensuring that I am ready to begin reviewing essential updates by 8 a.m. To achieve this, I will need to wake up much earlier and start the day with a structured sequence of tasks:
- Wake Up Early – Set a consistent wake-up time that allows enough time to complete my routine before 8 a.m.
- Exercise – Start with some form of movement, whether it’s a walk, stretching, or a short workout.
- Shower and Get Ready – Fully prepare for the day before sitting down at my desk.
- Breakfast (Away from the Computer) – Avoid the habit of eating in front of screens.
- Review Essential Updates (Starting at 8 a.m.) – This includes checking my websites, reviewing stop losses, and addressing any urgent tasks. I might explore developing AI agents to handle this aspect of my routine.
- Begin Focused Work – Only after completing the previous steps should I dive into deep work.
Since waking up early is only effective if I am well-rested, this will require a strict, early bedtime to ensure that I get enough sleep. I will set a goal to be in bed by 11 p.m. at the latest to maintain energy levels and focus throughout the day.
This small but crucial shift should improve my focus, energy, and ability to tackle tasks effectively.
Prioritising Quality Family Time
Yesterday, I took the family out for a walk, and it turned out to be an incredibly productive experience. We had meaningful discussions, made plans, and enjoyed quality time together. This reinforced the importance of scheduled family activities—not only for personal balance but also for mental clarity.
I plan to make family walks a regular part of my routine. Whether it’s once a week or more, creating space for these outings will provide an opportunity for open discussions while also ensuring that we all get some fresh air and movement.
Making Time for Study and Development
One area that I’ve neglected is my personal development—particularly studying for exams and courses that I had planned to complete as part of my 12-week plan.
The best way to correct this is to block out dedicated study time in my calendar, just as I do for meetings and work sessions. If I treat study time as non-negotiable rather than an afterthought, I’ll be far more likely to follow through.
A good approach might be:
- Choose a fixed time slot (e.g., evenings from 7-8 p.m. or early mornings before deep work).
- Limit study blocks to manageable durations (e.g., 45-60 minutes) to prevent burnout.
- Tie study sessions to clear goals (e.g., “Complete one module per week”).
This will help ensure steady progress without feeling like an overwhelming commitment.
Leveraging Trello and Calendar Blocking
Despite some setbacks, I am making more progress than I would have before embarking on my Five-Year Hypothesis. A major reason for this is my improved use of Trello and calendar time-blocking.
- Trello has been effective in keeping me focused on daily priorities. I can see what needs to be done and track my progress without getting overwhelmed. It also helps me quickly prioritise and plan for the next day.
- Calendar blocking helps me allocate time for specific activities, preventing tasks from dragging on indefinitely.
By continuing to refine these systems, I can further reduce distractions and improve execution.
Reigniting My Passion for Building Great Things
One thing I’ve noticed is that as I focus more on execution, I am rediscovering my love for creating things that are both functional and beautiful. This has been especially true while working on the new Quest for Education Foundation website.
Rather than viewing these projects as mere tasks, I want to stay connected to the craft of creating something truly impressive. By maintaining high standards and striving for excellence, I can ensure that each project I complete is something I’m genuinely proud of.
Next Steps
- Execute One Project at a Time – Avoid switching between projects and commit to seeing one through before moving on.
- Limit Crypto Distractions – Set a daily check-in limit, ensure stop losses are in place, and remove apps from my phone.
- Implement a Structured Morning Routine – Wake up early, exercise, shower, breakfast, and start work by 8 a.m.
- Maintain a Strict Early Bedtime – Ensure I get enough sleep by being in bed by 10 p.m. at the latest.
- Schedule Regular Family Walks – Integrate quality family time into my routine.
- Prioritise Study and Development – Block out non-negotiable time for learning.
- Continue Using Trello and Calendar Blocking – Keep refining these systems to stay focused.
- Maintain a High Standard in My Work – Approach each project with the intent to create something outstanding.
Final Thoughts
While I’m still not hitting all of my self-imposed deadlines, my overall progress is better than before. By making these refinements—especially focusing on single projects, improving my routine, and reducing distractions—I expect to move even closer to my long-term vision.
The key now is consistency. Each small improvement compounds over time, and by sticking to this structured approach, I’ll continue making meaningful strides toward my Five-Year Hypothesis.
More reflections to come next week—let’s keep moving forward.
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