Or don’t.
It’s as simple as that.
Stay with me…
Have you heard of first principles thinking?
It’s a mental model for solving complex problems. Used by philosophers and scientists, innovators and disruptors—from Aristotle to Elon Musk.
First principles thinking challenges conventional thinking.
It’s taking the big thing and breaking it down into its most basic things. It’s reasoning from fundamental truths opposed to reasoning by analogy.
Knowledge versus assumptions.
This got me thinking about building and breaking habits, productivity and focus. Complicated problems for a lot of us.
There are proven solutions:
- Apps that lock you out of social media to stop you from procrastinating
- Alarms with devilish features that annoy you into getting out of bed
- Coaches and hacks to keep you motivated and on task
All positioned to cure whatever plagues your progress.
But deleting an app is easier than waking up at 5:30AM. Firing a coach is easier than making a significant life change. And a meticulously planned week isn’t a guarantee of getting shit done.
Because shit’s tricky.
So let’s look at it through the lens of first principles. What’s the core truth of self-management?
Taking consistent action.
Want to establish an early morning routine? Set your alarm earlier and get out of bed when it goes off. Rinse and repeat until it’s habitual.
- Want to start a side hustle?
- Publish a book?
- Learn how to ride a bull?
Make that first cold call. Commit to writing 300 words a day. Buy yourself some chaps.
Just fucking do it. Or don’t.
It’s what I call the blue-collar method™ combined with first principles thinking. It’s a mindset that challenges the assumptions of your inner dialogue and programmed beliefs.
It’s a mindset for Life: Under Construction.
The Davis Daily 
I love your perspective on first principles thinking and the blue-collar metho! It’s all about breaking down complex problems and taking consistent action to achieve our goals. By challenging our assumptions and embracing a mindset for growth and change, we can navigate through life’s challenges and construct the life we truly desire. Keep up the inspiring work!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love that! There will always be challenges in life. The best way to navigate them is by embracing a mindset for growth and change. Thanks for reading.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Couldn’t agree more. Keep inspiring through your words Cory.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Shit or get off the pot Rockstar! Is how mon Sherri use to put .this is what I get from this article and of course correct me if I have missed the point. If you want to do something new or make a real change to better yourself and life for the positive, then do it and don’t make excuses for not or blame others/factors for not,” do or do not , their is no try” Yoda Jedi matser.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nailed it, dude. Appreciate you taking the time to read and comment!
LikeLike