Life Advice

It’s the day after Christmas, and as I sit here writing, I’m acutely aware of a vast ocean of rubbish surrounding me. If you’re a bit of a neat-freak like me, then perhaps you can empathize when I say that the experience is, shall we say… slightly uncomfortable. Everything strewn about, and not a single bit of it organized in any particular way.

When it comes to the aftermath of the holidays, a bit of chaos is to be expected. After all, most of the boxes, paper, and empty liquor bottles that helped make your parents more tolerable, are going to be discarded anyway. But what about

So the cycle has begun anew. The New Year has past, my hangover has finally subsided, and I’m back into the regular swing of things at work. Yet, just like every New Years, that which I most dread has occurred. Today I received my bank statement. Now as far as bank statements go I suppose it could be worse. I still have money in my bank account for one, all of my regular bills have been paid, and I’ve still got $25 in my savings account. So all things considered I’m not doing too bad in the finance department. Yet, I’m still sitting lighter than I ought to be, and now I

(Photo: Oblong)

When I’m walking down the street, people often stop me to ask a simple question; “Chad, how is that you shower in such a quick and efficient manner? Please, oh wise one, fill me with your knowledge, like a bishop fills his disciple with…”. I always tell them the same thing, to follow the Submariner Shower (SS) method of getting clean. No, I’m not talking about the Waffen SS, all though I’m sure they were a hygienic bunch as well.

No, instead I’m talking about a concept that my doctor (an ex-submarine crew member) explained to me, and that I gave a phony-baloney name to sound shrewd. The SS method of showering follows the notion that people, as a general rule, are

Over the years I’ve tried all manner of “to-do” apps and time management systems. I’ve also read dozens of books on getting things done, forming positive habits, and avoiding procrastination. Hell, I’ve even written a few articles on the subject myself. You see, self improvement is kind of a hobby for me. I’m always on the lookout for new and creative ways to make better use of my time, and avoid stupid shit like biting at my fingers.

What I’ve realized, though, is that many of these systems and apps are missing a key secret ingredient. They often rely on a person to remain motivated on their own, without any external reason to do so. I mean, sure…