The Unvarnished Truth About Getting Things Done
I’ve often been curious about how some individuals manage to accomplish so much, especially in the startup scene. Initially, I assumed it was due to working 18-hour days or employing some extraordinary productivity method.
However, I recently stumbled upon an insightful blog post by Sam Altman from 2013, and one line struck me hard:
“Things get done through a combination of extreme focus and personal connections.”
It’s a straightforward concept, but once you grasp it, it’s impossible to overlook.
Whenever I commit fully to a single endeavor and collaborate with intelligent individuals I genuinely connect with, progress begins to unfold rapidly.
On the other hand, those ten items lingering on my to-do list? The “maybe later” projects? They never come to fruition because they lack focus.
In Y Combinator’s words:
Write code. Talk to users.
Everything else is just noise.
Moreover, the importance of relationships is often underestimated by early-stage founders. The best hires I’ve made stemmed from connections I trust, and the most exciting projects emerged from a random message or a late-night brainstorming session with someone I resonate with.
It’s not about being busy; it’s about being intentional and involving the right people in your journey.
I’d love to hear your thoughts: What’s been your key to unlocking productivity as a builder or founder?
One Comment
This is such a powerful insight and resonates deeply with many of us in the startup ecosystem! It’s amazing how often we can get caught up in the hustle and bustle, thinking that sheer volume of work correlates with results. But you hit the nail on the head with the idea that focus and the right connections are the true catalysts for productivity.
Your experience of zeroing in on one project and collaborating with like-minded individuals aligns perfectly with my own journey. Each time I’ve made significant progress, it’s been rooted in prioritization and synergy with others who share a similar vision. When you have a clear focus and an aligned team, even the most ambitious goals seem attainable.
I also appreciate how you highlighted the importance of relationships. The most impactful ventures often stem from organic connections, whether it’s through networking at events, casual conversations, or even engaging on social media. Building a trusted network can lead to serendipitous opportunities that might not arise otherwise.
As for my personal productivity unlock, I’ve found that setting specific, measurable goals for both short-term and long-term projects, while dedicating focused time blocks specifically for deep work, has made a huge difference. Coupled with regular check-ins with my team, this approach helps maintain our collective momentum.
I’m excited to hear what others have discovered as well! What strategies or mindsets have you found to be your secret weapons in productivity?