Keep It Running ☟
Mentally I am here. My own motivation or lack thereof remains largely a mystery to me. While I’ve managed to make progress on a number of projects, I’ve exhausted my usual tips and tricks for staying engaged in the work.
On my third correspondence with you (and with three days left in the month), I wanted to share three strategies involving the number three that help me “keep it running” with relative consistency.
1) Three Deep Breaths Per Hour - When I’ve fallen off of my meditation routine, taking three deep breaths per hour helps bring me back to the present moment. I often pair this with saying to myself, “I am now bringing the focus back to my breath.”
2) Crossing Three Things Off- Most days my to-do list (I write almost EVERY task down no matter how small) is substantial. Taking a moment to prioritize which three action items I’d feel best about finishing in a given today keeps me focused and realistic.
3) Follow the 3-3-3 Rule - In moments of high anxiety, this can help to break a cycle or path of negative thinking that doesn’t benefit you. It’s simple - look around and name three things you see. Then, name three sounds you hear. Finally, move three parts of your body - your ankle, fingers, or arm. Learned this via illustrator Holden Mesk.
Alone & Stoned☟
Let’s get real, New Commute is one of the best music sites running. A treasure trove of beautiful art and music. Was (Borat voice) “very excite” to put together a guest mix for them. Crisp, stoned-out autumnal gold for your listening pleasure. Art by Dan Wilson. Listen here + be sure to give me a follow on Mixcloud if you’re on there!
Love Is the King☟
Jeff Tweedy is the 🐐. I love Wilco + most Tweedy-related albums but I’ve grown to love Jeff Tweedy as a person ever more. It was an honor to speak with him for The Creative Independent. Seeing “Jeff Tweedy entered your zoom room” was a trip. We talked through demystifying the creative process, disappearing in your work, and why ego can be useful. Read our full conversation here. Tweedy’s latest solo record Love Is The King does not disappoint.
Eater’s Guide to the World☟
Sharing this news is big for me. Earlier this year I confirmed my first ever sync license for television. The song ‘Bernard’ from You Become The Mountain will be featured in the debut episode of Eater’s Guide the World on Hulu on 11/11. The show celebrates some of the world’s most storied culinary destinations and is narrated by Emmy-nominated actress Maya Rudolph. Watch the trailer below and be sure to tune in to hear my music make its television debut.
What I’m Reading,Watching and Listening To☟
Reading -
How to Write One Song - Jeff Tweedy
Watching -
The Undoing (HBO)
Kajillionaire (Amazon Rental)
Listening -
Randall Stephens - The Music I Love is Gospel