Merlin Mann published this post back at the beginning of December. I saved it to read — along with a slew of other posts.
Now sitting on the balcony of a condo in Orange Beach, catching up on all my tips about blogging and technology and productivity, I came to Mann’s post.
Here’s how he wraps it up:
Real Advice Hurts | 43 Folders: “You should and will consume the web however you please, and if scanning lists of tips is a relaxing pastime for you, I’m the last person to begrudge you your fun. But, it’s time to stop pretending that practical expertise at anything can take place in an RSS reader.
Next time you find yourself staring at another re-packaged post about all the ‘resources’ for becoming great at whatever you’re theoretically excited about, ask yourself for specific evidence — things you can point to that you’ve done or made — that reflect the improvement all those thousands of tips and resources brought you.
If you can shut me down with a hundred satisfied lovers, a pile of well-kicked opponents, or a passport full of countries you’ve walked through: well, more power to you and the tips that helped you get good.
But, if the countless, dreary hours of resource-hunting and tip-scarfing have primarily produced more RSS subscriptions and a giant ass print on your couch, maybe it’s time to stand up, and start chewing some gum.”
I suggest you read it, then do as I did and delete a good portion of what you’ve been saving to read.
Instead, go exercise, go write that blog post, go work on that project you’ve been putting off.
I am.
