Take a “Longcut”

Shortcuts aren't always worth taking.

Doing work the way it's "supposed" to be done is normal. It's easy. It's the status quo. This is the default path.

And sometimes, as we journey along the path of doing our regular work, we're presented with shortcuts. Ways to save time, work more quickly, and wrap the work faster. Contrary to the connotation associated, shortcuts aren't always bad. They don't always come with negative trade-offs. Sometimes they're simply what the name implies - a shortcut to the end goal.

But often overlooked is the alternative to shortcuts - the "longcut".

Intentionally slowing down, spending more time on the front end learning and exploring, and enjoying the journey of doing the work - rather than simply racing to finish.

Shortcuts have their place. But so do longcuts.

So, when appropriate for a body of work, ask yourself if taking a longcut is worth considering. Meander through exploration. Get additional perspectives. Learn more about adjacent work that touches yours.

If you can afford the extra time, you'll come out the other side of your journey better for it.

Thanks for spending time with me in my workshop,

Eric