Environment, Passion and Effort

A powerful and unsuspecting trifecta

Author

Scott D Johnson
February 23, 2024

In this issue we’ll cover 3 concepts I stumbled upon this week.

While each resonated with me individually, I thought they were particularly powerful when combined.

Let’s dive in!

At a Glance

  • Your environment affects your thinking.

  • Authenticity matters, and your passion is a breeding ground for it.

  • More effort doesn’t always lead to better results.

The Cathedral Effect

Your environment affects your thinking.

This is why cathedrals—with their towering ceilings, large open spaces, intricate designs, and the interplay of light and shadow—are designed to evoke a sense of something greater than oneself.

In addition, The concept also applies beyond religious spaces.

  • High ceilings and open spaces promote abstract thinking and creativity.

  • You’re more likely to find focus in minimalist environments without clutter.

This is true for your home and office, but it also applies to your digital life.

A question I’m currently exploring


How can I simplify my digital systems to create mental space and achieve more clarity?

I’ve found Tiago Forte’s book Building a Second Brain to be helpful, and I’m currently experimenting with many of his ideas. More to come


The Power of Passion

Authenticity matters, and your passion is a breeding ground for it.

Lean into topics that give you energy. Not only will they fuel you, you might just inspire others along the way. Passion is contagious.

The Backwards Law

More effort doesn’t always lead to better results.

The philosopher Alan Watts writes about this paradox in his book The Wisdom of Insecurity:

“Sometimes I call it the ‘backwards law.’ When you try to stay on the surface of the water, you sink; but when you try to sink, you float. When you hold your breath, you lose it.”

“The more you pursue feeling better all the time, the less satisfied you become, as pursuing something only reinforces the fact that you lack it in the first place.”

Alan Watts

For more on the topic, read this blog from Mark Manson, the author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. 

Why the Best Things in Life Are All Backwards

Trying too hard to get what you want in life—like love, respect, and happiness—often has the opposite effect: you end up lonely, dejected, and miserable. Here's why.

markmanson.net/the-backwards-law

Thanks for reading!

I took ‘The Backwards Law’ to heart and made this week significantly shorter than previous issues. Let me know what you think.

Until next week, keep growing »

Scott​

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