Staring Into Space

The Tutor Podcast

This episode explores the concept that environment is superior to willpower. Neil shares his own experiences of avoiding temptations by staying away from certain environments and emphasises the importance of surrounding oneself with the right environment for success. Neil also discusses the productivity habits of renowned writer Neil Gaiman, who attributes his success to the power of boredom and creating a distraction-free writing space. Neil encourages listeners to try implementing these strategies in their own lives and shares his personal approach to writing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The environment is superior to will: The idea that the environment plays a significant role in our actions and decisions, creating a conducive environment can be more effective than relying solely on willpower.

• Learn from top performers: By observing principles, beliefs, language, behaviours, and processes of successful people you can improve your skills and achieve similar results.

• Embrace boredom: Neil Gaiman's approach to writing creates a space free from distractions and allows him to either write or do nothing. Embracing boredom can lead to increased focus and productivity.

• Time blocking: This helps create a routine and ensures dedicated time for the activity.

• Give yourself permission: Give yourself permission to either write or not write, this can alleviate the pressure of writer's block. By removing the expectation to produce, it can then be easier to start and engage in the writing process.

BEST MOMENTS

"Environment is superior to will for the vast majority of people. And unless you're a superhuman with iron will and balls of steel, that probably includes you and me."

"Neil's superpower is actually boredom. He has a gazebo where he writes. And while he's there, he obeys one simple rule. Neil says, well you can sit here and write, or you can sit here and do nothing, but you can't do anything else."

"I tell myself it's okay not to write it's okay but it's bloody boring. I don't permit myself to watch YouTube or listen to any podcasts or audiobooks. I may have a quiet soundscape or some background ambient noise playing in my own noise-canceling headphones just to block out distracting sounds. But that's about it. Boring."

"So guys, clear the decks, turn off the phone, turn off the TV, the radio, turn off all notifications, close any windows other than the one you're actually working in. Block out anything and anyone remotely interesting and apply your bum to the seat."

"I don't get writer's block anymore. I just choose to do nothing or to give myself permission to write and do one thing and notice that it's ever so slightly more interesting than doing absolutely nothing at all."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

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HOST BIO

Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years’ experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!