This is a recent 5-minute presentation I gave at Google I/O Ignite called “The Practicality of Pessimism: Stoicism as a Productivity System.”
In it, I discuss the two most effective productivity techniques I’ve found since 2004, both borrowed from Stoicism. I include personal usage examples, as well as several from Seneca and Cato. The audio is quite low, so you’ll need to up the volume.
Ponder this: could defining your fears be more important than defining your goals?
Suggested and related posts:
Fireside Chat at Google with Timothy Ferriss
The Secrets of Super-Productive CEOs – QA with Timothy Ferriss (Inc. Magazine)
Stoicism 101: A Practical Guide for Entrepreneurs
On The Shortness of Life: An Introduction to Seneca
Stoicism for Modern Stresses: 5 Lessons from Cato
For those who’d like to taste the various approaches to this format, here are all of the Ignite videos in one uncut sequence. There are some outstanding speakers:
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great talk Tim! keep calm and carry on! I love it!
I'm wondering if Tim, or anyone else, could please help me to understand the meaning of this sentence. I don't mean to be anal or fixated, but it seemed significant… At 5:32 of the Google Ignite video, Tim says: "undervaluing the things that are easily obtainable." Does this go back to the 3rd part of the list with all the things I can do to get back to the status quo? Or just tell me to let it go. Either way. 🙂 Thanks!
One of the best pieces of advice you've ever given. Kudos for a great speech.
this is general comment about this site: i dont see any sign of tim's ideas on selling and marketing. should be a top topic here, because not much happens till some sales are made. i read one comment somewhere, that people are more persuaded by fear of losing something than promises to get something. is that true or just a hypothesis by tim without proof? so if it's true, i need MORE ideas like that, posted on this site, about how to sell better. as an ent, one of my top talents/skills is selling, because i restrict it to things i really believe in, because they are really desirable to anyone almost, eg a cure for cancer, etc. so where is the marketing advice on this site?? – thanks – paul
Hi Tim, I would like to thank you for that video. Looking forward to watch more like these.
I was introduced to Stoicism because of this video few years ago. It changed my life for the better. Thank you Tim!
I was introduced to Stoicism because of this video few years ago. It changed my life for the better!! Thank you so much Tim!
I found that stoicism resonates with me more than western religion. Thanks for introducing me to stoic philosophy Tim!
Get a man in india to watch them and send you a summary email.
Hi Tim, I have a question about manufacturers. I've been through the steps of your book, but in looking for a manufacturer, it is really important to me that I use ethical company. I don't want to contribute to a culture where they have to hang nets outside windows so people don't die when they try to kill themselves because the working conditions are so terrible. Any tips? Best,