5. When things go wrong, simplify

Dear Marlowe,

“When things go wrong, simplify.” 

I’ve never forgotten this quote from a book on weight-lifting I read by Dan John in my mid twenties.

When we find ourselves underperforming, or when we find ourselves in a difficult situation, we tend to make things more complicated. We craft elaborate strategies. We over think. We fill our days. We drown in detail. Doing the opposite works better in practice.

If I am trying to master or develop a skill and reach a plateau or find myself regressing, I return to the fundamentals. 

If I feel overwhelmed I return to the foundations of a good life — sleep, diet, exercise, good company, and activities I love. 

If I find myself in a challenging situation, I look at what I can do less of or eliminate entirely to allow me to focus.

When things go wrong, simplify.

Love,

Dad.

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Letters to Marlowe is a personal project to pass on valuable life advice to my son.

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