2x2: How to align tasks with goals

Hello from Colorful Colorado! I’m writing this week's edition of 2x2 from the front porch of my Airbnb, enjoying the cool morning air. As always, for this week’s newsletter I've got a couple of resources, tools, diversions, books, tools, toys, or other types of recommendations for you to check out; and then, secondly, are a couple of ideas, stories, or tips from me. Enjoy! Check this out 1: [Colorado Forest Wallpaper Images]( Here are a couple photos from my recent camping trip to the back trails of Arapaho National Forest near Ute Pass. (Shot with the Leica Q, of course.) And, as promised, I’ve got [more Colorado photos that I’m posting to my Instagram right now](. For the next few weeks, I'll be taking a bit of a break from the focus- and productivity-centric posts to share more personal and BTS stuff from our time in Colorado. 2: [The Terminal List (a novel)]( Speaking of summer vacation… one of my favorite pastimes is a good novel. Right now I’m reading and enjoying [The Terminal List]( by Jack Carr. (Apparently it also just came out as a new show on Prime.) Something to think about 1: Time Management Myth: “If I manage my time, I won’t get to do fun stuff.” Fact: By managing your time you can protect the fun stuff and ensure the other ares of your life don’t encroach on it. Take control of your time and do MORE fun stuff. You do this by (a) scheduling it so you have a better chance at getting to that activity; and (b) keeping the less-fun-stuff contained. A healthy schedule includes margin and breathing room, as well as time for you to relax, goof off, have fun, and go on adventures! 2: How to align your tasks with your goals (or: How to create an action plan) Many people struggle to make regular progress toward their goals. This is often because the things they are doing are not actually related to accomplishing their goals. To create an action plan, I like to start with the end in mind, and then work backward. Once you have a desired outcome, all you need to do is list the steps necessary to accomplish it. Break things down into small action items. Schedule time for yourself for when you’ll do the next action item for that goal. As you begin to move forward, you’ll discover that Action Brings Clarity. * * * — Shawn P.S. What is a goal you have in mind right now that you’re struggling to make progress toward? Hit reply and let me know, or [send me a DM on Instagram](. [In-Depth App Training for Power Users]( To unsubscribe, click [here](. Blanc Media, 714 Main St., Grandview, MO 64030, United States