The Graffiti Machine

We all have those small tasks we avoid—paperwork piling up, a cluttered office, or something simple that feels like a hassle. For me, those things build up in my mind and start to weigh on me. But when I finally take care of them, there's always a sense of relief.

Research shows that unfinished tasks, or "open loops," take up mental space and increase stress. The more we avoid them, the more they quietly drain our energy. Tackling them right away frees up that mental clutter and makes life feel lighter.

Stop waiting. Do it now. It's worth it.

In this episode, we explore the Craftsman Mindset from Cal Newport's So Good They Can't Ignore You. This idea flips the script on "following your passion" and emphasizes mastering skills as the key to meaningful work.

I share a powerful dream that confirmed my dedication to my path, reflect on the challenges of entrepreneurship, and discuss how honing skills—like marketing and leadership—has brought meaning to my work. We also touch on examples like Steve Jobs and finding fulfillment in any job through mastery.

If you're questioning your path or looking for more purpose in your work, this episode is for you.

January of 2025 marks 10 years of the current version of Machine—I say current only because I started Machine in 2002 as a motion graphics business then transitioned into what we have now in 2015. It's been quite a ride so far, but it still feels like we haven't even started yet.

In 2015, it was mainly a one man show. I lived in the back of the shop with my four dogs. No heat, air, hot water, kitchen, shower, or any of the creature comforts we're used to. I cooked on a hot plate and showered at the YMCA. I was all in on the vision, but it wasn't a clear vision at all.

I just wanted to do something positive for the graff culture by opening a place for writers to gather, blackbook, attend art shows, etc. Over time, it developed into what you see now. Lots of ups and downs and a huge amount of great memories.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this. Team members, customers, supporters, collaborators, everyone. We have a long way to go.

— Bus

P.S. Rest in peace Kub, Herbie, Hooper, and Shortie. I think about you all the time.

With the new year and new goals, I thought about the habits that changed my life for the better and put them together as a program. It's 8 weeks of the following daily habits:

• 10 Minutes of Meditation • 10 Pages of Reading • 30 Minutes of Exercise • Stick to a Diet • Do the Power List

This episode goes into some detail as to why these habits, but most should be pretty obvious. If you want to read more about it, you can visit the website below. If you do the program, please let me know how it went!

https://rebuild.graffitimachine.com/

When I'm having trouble creating, I use this technique and it works every time.

Just start. Sometimes you'll have to force yourself to do it—make anything without worry, just to get moving forward. The longer you go, the more momentum you build.

Every now and then, you'll discover something that feeds the fire. Keep exploring, keep making. Eventually, it'll feel like it's flowing on its own. From there, all you have to do is maintain it.

The law of rhythm reveals that life's cycles—whether good or bad—are part of a natural, repeating flow. With this perspective, we can find comfort in the lows, knowing they'll rise, and prepare in the highs, knowing they'll shift. It's a tool for staying steady, patient, and focused through every phase.