Emergent: December 2018

This month: Do one thing at a time, how to be more patient and a better listener, and the best business books to give this holiday season.

Emergent is a monthly newsletter that features Noah’s ideas, writing, podcasts, and other things that are capturing his attention. Subscribe here.

Maybe it’s just me, but the fall has gone by in a blink. Halloween and Thanksgiving blended together into a mad rush and now the rest of the holiday season is upon us.

With everything seemingly moving so fast, I thought it would be a good idea to get a jump on some resolutions. That way, we can all be a little ahead of things as we barrel into December.

Thanks for reading!
Noah

1. This month’s early resolution

An early resolution: Do one thing at a time

We’re all trying to do a million things at once. Work follows us at all times via our phones and laptops and we’re constantly busy. But are we really getting things done? Even though we feel incredibly busy, it can sometimes be hard to point to any single accomplishment.

To combat this, we need to focus on doing just one thing at a time. We need to resolve to fight multitasking. Personally, I’m going to start by bringing my 100% focus to meetings. Harvard Business Review has a short article on this idea — maybe it’ll inspire you to bring a new focus to your work and family. Read The Magic of Doing One Thing at a Time.

As a bonus, you should also check out some writing tools that are designed to help you focus. There are several free and paid options worth checking out.

2. This month’s self-improvement tips

How to be more patient and a better listener

A side effect of our multitasking and access to the world’s information in the palms of our hands is a growing lack of patience. We’ve become poor listeners, and we’re looking for instant responses to everything, all the time.

But, we can work to improve both of these things. I’m resolving to improve these skills in 2019.

Here are a few things that will help you get started: 5 Hacks to Improve your Listening and How to be a More Patient Listener.

3. This month’s best books

The best business books to give

If you’re looking for gifts for work colleagues or are just looking to fill your own library for the new year, check out this great list of the 25 Most Influential Books About Business Ever Written.

There are plenty of classics on this list, as well as a few you may not have read yet. Check it out and build your reading list for 2019. View the list now.

First time reading? I’m glad you’re here.
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