In this world of clogged Inboxes full of stubborn emails that keep arriving even after you’ve unsubscribed—pitches, promotions, news, demands—it’s rare to actually be surprised, entertained, or nourished by a stray email. I had that experience recently via Richard Nash’s newsletter, “The Dinner Party Letters.”
Another overlooked benefit to selective quitting vs. willfully perseverance is the notion of opportunity cost. Doggedly working on a novel or other project primarily for the sake of not quitting drains time, energy, and creative resources. If the inspiration and drive isn't there to WANT to push forward, perhaps it is best to set it aside. Free yourself to what you do want to complete. As the saying goes, sometimes you must empty your cup in order to fill it.
Well said, focus in this world of "constantly online" is important as well, because Substack is swell and all but if you are working on your novel, work on your novel. Focus.
Great reflection on quitting vs persevering! This binary is one of the most important dynamics in how we manage our lives, but little discussed, since perseverance is enshrined as the ideal.
Interesting reflections and worth considering. I like that unexpected glee of not doing what is expected. It's good to examine your life and see what would benefit you by quitting.
Another overlooked benefit to selective quitting vs. willfully perseverance is the notion of opportunity cost. Doggedly working on a novel or other project primarily for the sake of not quitting drains time, energy, and creative resources. If the inspiration and drive isn't there to WANT to push forward, perhaps it is best to set it aside. Free yourself to what you do want to complete. As the saying goes, sometimes you must empty your cup in order to fill it.
Agreed. Perfectly said.
Well said, focus in this world of "constantly online" is important as well, because Substack is swell and all but if you are working on your novel, work on your novel. Focus.
There is a need for moderation in everything, including perseverance. Thank you for this thoughtful reflection. Blessings
Great reflection on quitting vs persevering! This binary is one of the most important dynamics in how we manage our lives, but little discussed, since perseverance is enshrined as the ideal.
Interesting reflections and worth considering. I like that unexpected glee of not doing what is expected. It's good to examine your life and see what would benefit you by quitting.
There should be a word for the "unexpected glee of not doing what is expected."
I think there is. Wouldn't "rapture" cover it?
So you’re going to start posting once every two years? 😂
Haha, it is tempting to have an irregular newsletter. I'm still going for once a week, though.
Once a week is great. I wish I had your patience 🙌