This is my advice to anyone writing something for the public — especially a talk on stage.

Cut out everything that’s not surprising

Society & Culture

Personal Journals

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Arts

Literature

Performing Arts

Design

Food

Fashion & Beauty

Visual Arts

Education

Training

Language Courses

Higher Education

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Educational Technology

Books

Self-Improvement

Kids scream, “Monster in the hallway!”, and hide behind the couch.  They stack up cushions for protection, and plan their defense.  They know it’s not true — there’s not really a monster in the hallway — but it’s exciting to feel the adrenaline of panic, then make a shelter and feel safe.

make believe

In my previous post, “a daily run” — (please read it first) — running was a metaphor for whatever actions you take in your life.  The story is about how we choose beliefs because they’re useful, not true.     Beliefs make emotions.  Emotions make actions.

a daily run, part two

Every day you go on a long run through the forest.

a daily run, part one

Your explanations are not true

Here’s a story about my shortest date, and ketchup.

shortest date, and ketchup

Derek Sivers

Cut out everything that’s not surprising

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