Essentialist Philosophy

Purpose

Life presents an abundance of choices, yet our capacity remains restricted by time, focus, and purpose. The discipline of essentialism involves a meticulous examination of these constraints, discerning the inevitable trade-offs and consistently selecting activities, pathways, and objectives that result in achievements of the greatest significance.

Photograph by Irynka Hromotska with 4x5 film camera.

Direction

My planning process includes a continuous reassessment of goals in accordance with a five-year plan, ensuring alignment with my overarching priorities. This foresight allows for precision in scheduling and a comprehensive understanding of what matters most.

At the onset of each week, I recalibrate my short-term plan to accommodate the unique contingencies and opportunities of the near term. By reconfirming the most important aspects, I equip myself to resolutely reject non-essential demands that may surface.

I am keenly aware that hard work, while a testament to effort, does not inherently signify the importance of a task. It is indeed feasible to invest immense effort in less meaningful pursuits. Therefore, through regular evaluation and alignment, I ensure that my actions and those of my organization are focused on the right endeavors, pursued with excellence, and aligned with our highest aspirations.

Motivation

My commitment to essentialism manifests most prominently in what I deliberately eliminate: unnecessary clutter, ambiguity, and vacillation. By dispelling these hindrances, I cultivate an environment conducive to thoughtful contemplation, precise purpose, well-defined priorities, creative exploration, and the successful realization of the core essentials.

  • Davis, B. W. (2020). Real Zen for real life [Recorded lecture]. The Great Courses.

    Kondō, M., & Hirano, C. (2014). The life-changing magic of tidying up: The Japanese art of decluttering and organizing. Ten Speed Press.

    McKeown, G. (2014). Essentialism: The disciplined pursuit of less. Crown Business.

    Millburn, J. F., & Nicodemus, R. (2011). Minimalism: Live a meaningful life. Asymetrical Press.

    Newport, C. (2019). Digital minimalism: Choosing a focused life in a noisy world. Portfolio/Penguin.

    Sasaki, F. (2017). Goodbye, things: A minimalist’s guide to a better life. W. W. Norton & Company.