More Complex Procedures

Even intricate activities or concepts can be broken down similarly into information packets. These packets often emerge from practicing the described idea or repeatedly engaging in the process. Over time, your mental muscle memory will enable you to recall the next step without actively trying to remember it.

At one point in my career as a broker and firm owner, I aimed to grow my team from just myself to sixteen agents. I placed a small advertisement in the newspaper and conducted a couple of interviews daily. This process became so routine that it felt almost automatic.

The nature of my business necessitated that part of the interview be educational rather than purely evaluative. If you find yourself delivering a similar message multiple times a day, it can become almost second nature. This is what I refer to as an information packet—self-sustaining and flexible enough to pause for questions and then seamlessly continue.

Transitioning from traditional real estate practices to a more DIY approach required educating potential sellers about my methods. My ability to present information packets kept my presentations feeling natural, even if they were somewhat scripted. This approach resonated with prospects and led some to request that I write a book, attracted by my relaxed style, which I attribute to my use of information packets.

Creating the Book

Eventually, I took up the challenge of writing the requested book, and my information packets continued to guide me. I would often steal away during lunch breaks to jot down a few notes, working incrementally. The information packets always seemed to appear in the right order, waiting for the opportune moment to be utilized.

Incrementalism: A Path to Mastery

Malcolm Gladwell extensively discusses the phenomenon of achieving mastery after 10,000 hours of practice in his book, "The Outliers." He cites examples such as The Beatles' formative years in Hamburg. While I can't claim to have reached that milestone, I can attest that the principle of incrementalism is effective based on my experiences.

At the Kitchen Table

Previously, I relished the opportunity to sit with clients at their kitchen tables, discussing the journey of selling their homes. Over time, I found myself equally passionate about writing, enjoying the process itself. My approach to incrementalism often involved utilizing written index cards or digestible portions of larger tasks.

I could craft a book one index card at a time or record my thoughts in 30-minute segments using my phone or portable voice recorder. For those writing non-fiction, especially on unfamiliar topics, I recommend starting with a quasi-outline. This approach can help structure thoughts into coherent information packets. However, if your book is on a topic you won’t need to present frequently, a more fluid approach may suffice.

Fiction writing operates on a different level, where the need for information packets is less critical, provided the writer can maintain focus on the narrative's direction. In this context, information packets can still aid writers in articulating their ideas more comfortably.

The Comfort of Incremental Habits

It's reassuring to know that habits can be cultivated in less time than 10,000 hours. Incrementalism has become a common strategy for various self-improvement endeavors, from weight loss to quitting smoking.

Conclusion

If your to-do list feels overwhelming—like trying to eat an elephant—remember that it's unlikely you'll accomplish it all in one day. However, breaking tasks down into smaller, manageable chunks can alleviate some of that pressure. Embracing incrementalism may lead to success in both personal and creative pursuits.

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A real estate broker with 38 years of experience, Don is also an insightful observer and prolific storyteller. He shares a mix of humor, common sense, and life lessons. Follow him on TWITTER, another TWITTER, FACEBOOK, MEDIUM, or his WEBSITE.

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