SPaMCAST 846 features a discussion based on Seth Godin’s , Seth stated. “Busy is a morally superior distraction. Busy gets us off the hook. Busy is a great place to hide.” The comment greatly impacted me because I had a conversation in which someone had equated being busy to value and productivity. Efficiency is vital. It is however only a tool for improving productivity and value – not the ultimate goal.  We will also have a visit from , the Evolutionary Agilist. Mr. Berriault and I discuss the distinction between manipulation and persuasion.  Mastering Work Intake sponsors SPaMCAST! As the new year builds up steam, have you looked at your to-do list and said, “Oh my” (or something saltier)? I know I have. This is a symptom of a work intake issue. Whether you are reacting to your work or personal backlog, it's time to learn to take control!  Buy a copy of Mastering Work Intake (your work-life balance will improve). Amazon (US) — JRoss —   Do you want to test the water before spending your year-end bonus? and I offer free 30-minute “office hours” sessions. In these sessions, we’ll facilitate helping to identify and create a plan to tackle one of your work intake challenges. Book time with us here: Re-read Saturday News Now for something completely different. Over the past few years, I have contemplated philosophy in the context of work and life. Our re-reading of is just the tip of the iceberg. Today we take the second exit at the roundabout and start the read/re-read of . Next SPaMCAST  SPaMCAST 847 will feature a discussion with Pete Oliver-Krueger and Michael Dougherty. We will discuss their new book, Shift: From Product To People. Shift is a business novel of organizational change. I think you will find this an important view into change and transformation.