Posterous theme by Cory Watilo

bearwithclaws


The Pursuit of Kōan

Barefoot Running

Like many others who read Born to Run, I started running barefoot. 

After many unsuccessful attempt to get my own Vibram Five Fingers, I got myself a pair of Lunas instead.

I felt good in my first two run. Since there is no cushioning (only a 
6mm Vibram neoprene sole), you simply couldn't heel strike. I got into forefoot strike naturally (I tried to get myself into midfoot strike but somehow failed). I've also kept trying to increase my cadence and decrease my stride length.  And for a moment, I felt like flying.

Looking forward to run every morning and the Standard Chartered KL Marathon next month. 

Productivity Hacks Revisit

It's been awhile since I've written about productivity. Here's what I've learned since then.

  • The best and simplest productivity advice I came across: One thing at a time. Most important thing first. Start now.
  • Don't plan too much ahead. I found out that if I planned thru my days of what tasks needed to be done at what time, I normally didn't follow thru (not sure why). The best way is to simply define 2-3 most important things at the start of the day. And that's it.
  • Structured Procrastination works. When you don't feel like working on one thing, then work on another thing (rather than taking break or dozing off).
  • Take real breaks. It's really easy to do half-hearted breaks, like random surfing, or reading tweets. It's important to rejuvenate your energy in breaks (that's what breaks are for). Go for a walk, run, bike, hike, meditate, yoga, workout. Outdoor works best (with no computer/internet in sight).
  • Get a co-working buddy. Especially someone who understands and respects your flow and productivity. 
  • Eat real and good food. VERY important - especially breakfast. It provides the energy throughout the day and helps you keep going.