Productivity Lessons from Artists and Entrepreneurs

Prioritize Consistency Over Heroic Efforts

Though inspiration can suddenly strike, turning it into a tangible finished product is a matter of sustained effort, he says. “It’s getting up every day and doing the work…taking thousands of passes and polishes.”

Seek Mentorship

Someone who cares about you, knows more than you, who will give you both good and constructive feedback and create opportunities is a blessing beyond imagination. Additionally, a good mentor helps you avoid making the same mistakes they have.

Sleep!

When entrepreneurs sacrifice sleep, they also sacrifice creativity, self-control, and attention span.

Put Yourself in Good Company

Starting a business is hard, not only because you need to maintain motivation through ups and downs, but also because it can be easy to get stuck inside your own head. A supportive, honest, and open-minded peer group helps solve these problems, says Kocher, and encourages an entrepreneur to “pressure-test their thinking, assumptions, and ideas.”

Focus on What You Can Control, and Don’t Ever Become Complacent

“I think people believe arriving is the big win. Don’t get me wrong—it’s an honor to make the NFL, or to be a published author, or to be invited to represent your country at the Olympics. But to me, that’s only the beginning. I want to beat myself each time.”

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