You Need This Solution

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes, 38 seconds

Not every shortcut is smart.

A faster solution that breaks the purpose isn’t a solution - it’s sabotage.

Wise action considers why you’re doing something, not just how to do it quicker.

Everyone can relate to today’s illustration:

You’ve likely seen a version of this idea online at some point.

A tube can only hold so many tennis balls, but by cutting the balls in half, you can fit more in the tube, right?

But then the tennis balls aren’t really balls anymore, right?

The solution to the problem has created an even bigger problem.

So I’ll say again: Not all solutions are solutions.

Drucker, a pioneer of modern management thinking, reminds us that efficiency is meaningless without wisdom.

You can be incredibly productive - and still be completely off track.

The smarter question isn’t “How can I do this faster?” but “Should I be doing this at all?”

In the age of hacks, quick fixes, and monetised solutions, we’re constantly sold answers.

But not all answers are wise.

Some “solutions” solve the wrong problem - or ruin the point in the process.

Take the tennis ball metaphor: yes, you can fit more balls in the tube if you cut them in half.

But then… they’re no longer tennis balls.

This is what happens when we optimise for speed, volume, or growth at the expense of quality, purpose, or function.

Here are 3 ways to avoid cutting your own tennis balls in half:

1. Start with purpose. 
   Before asking how, ask why.
   What’s the actual goal and does this shortcut still get you there?

2. Be wary of too-easy answers. 
   If something skips the real work, it often skips the real reward too.
   If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

3. Define success wisely. 
   Is it faster? Or deeper?
   More efficient? Or more meaningful?
   Don’t let cleverness override clarity.

Let’s dive deeper into today’s wisdom with these 3 journal prompts:

• Where in my life have I optimised for efficiency but lost sight of the goal?

• What problem am I trying to solve, and is it even the right one?

• Where might I be tempted to cut corners that don’t need cutting?

Want to learn more about journaling? Join Journal Wiser today!

Today’s resource is Productivity Game’s video summary of Cal Newport’s Slow Productivity.

If you’re not familiar with the aptly named Core Message, you are in for a treat. They’re animated videos breaking down the Core Messages from all of your favourite books.

In this one, we learn how Cal Newport makes the case that real, lasting success often comes from doing less, more deliberately.

It’s a perfect reminder that smart work isn’t always fast work—and that not every shortcut is worth taking.

Watch the 9-minute video here:

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Catch you in the next issue!

Thanks,
Michael