Prioritize Then Execute

A framework for maintaining focus and executing tasks effectively, based on military experience and professional writing.

Core Philosophy of Task Management

• Focus intensely on one thing at a time
• Clear transitions between different work modes
• Avoid context switching which reduces effectiveness
• Prioritize what matters most first

Writing Process Structure

• Writes one book per year with clear deadlines
• Spends about a year on the whole process for each book
• Uses a one-page summary before starting each book to:
  • Define the core story/concept
  • Evaluate if it's worth spending a year on
  • Consider if readers will find it valuable
• Doesn't get stuck on plot challenges
  • Knows solutions will come over the year
  • Maintains forward momentum

Business Task Management

• Delegates Hollywood projects to dedicated team
• Recently expanded from solo operation to team of 6
• Separates different business functions:
  • Creative writing
  • Hollywood projects
  • Marketing/promotion
  • Business operations

Military-Inspired Execution Principles

• Looks at business like a battlefield
  • Identifies gaps in market/competition
  • Adapts to changing conditions
  • Capitalizes on momentum
• Applies "prioritize and execute" mindset from SEAL teams
• Makes aggressive but calculated decisions
• Values creative problem solving under pressure

Transition Management

• Clear boundaries between different work modes
• Structured approach to switching between tasks
• Focuses bandwidth on one priority at a time
• Maintains quality by avoiding diluted attention

This framework emphasizes intense focus on individual tasks while maintaining clear transitions between different modes of work, drawing from military experience and professional writing practices.