How to boost your productivity

[@Jekkyboi]

This is just what I needed right now

[@agamingskipper1121]

exactly

[@grayman735]

Yes 🤔

[@lukesorley]

It's a shame this video doesn't have a lot more views, because this sort of advice is bound to improve the life of any creative. I hope it won't be too much longer until you're active on KZbin again, Pogo!

[@lionheart1607]

Lifting weights made me more confident, more handsome, more mentally focused. One of the best activities I can recommend to people.

[@andoverwarren6392]

I am going to watch this several times. Once is not enough. Thank you for taking the time to get this down so nicely and published for us.

[@Pogomix]

I hope it's worth your time. Good luck!

[@darkender88]

@@Pogomix more videos please!

[@crisbowman]

Fascinating insight, it puts more weight on the concept of FLOW. That place where you both are and aren't. Take out the ego, and let it flow...

[@Pogomix]

Really well put!

[@Jekkyboi]

Honestly, what helped me alot back in high school was listening to pogo while studying for exams

[@zealot4jesus]

I discovered Pogo during college and he carried me through the last two years of that torturous time

[@draco6061]

@@zealot4jesus in the midst of graduate school and can say I owe Mr. Pogo a good bit.

[@zealot4jesus]

@@draco6061 truly, his is peak study music. It’s cool to see the shared experiences we have with the creations of an artist that deserves much more acclaim.

[@thevanillatoast]

"you dont want to bind to this idea youve got to be totally original" how how did you know im striving for that so hard

[@darkyolks]

Was going to procrastinate my creative work by watching KZbin and this was the first video that popped up. Thank you.

[@sanjacobs6261]

It's not very often that I really get into deep flow when creating, but when I do, I don't want to interrupt it. I don't understand people who get into some work and after a couple of hours they take a break. For me, I've always done my best work when I start around 8 PM, it starts going really good around 10 PM, and I consider myself done around 4 AM. Maybe a quick run or two to the bathroom in there, but otherwise no breaks. I'll eat a hearty dinner, and I won't feel the need to stop for snacks or anything, I can just work for hours and hours, and I love it.

[@Triforcefilms]

Well said, somethings we need to constantly be considering I differ slightly in my schedule, it takes hours after waking before my brain is fully firing, and at its peak very late in the day, lots of different biological differences between folk, but its just about recognizing that and utilizing the proper window. Treating youtube and content creation like a fun game to keep it light and detached from feeling is SO smart, its worked well for me so cool to see that mentality elsewhere. Appreciate your diverse and cerebral content.

[@smithsmithy7149]

You're spoiling us Nick. But seriously, this video is much needed. I've been in a creative rut for a bit and sometimes it's tough to get back into a good creative mindset.

[@wombat7961]

Remember running through my pantry for tuna cans during pandemic...i used these to make tuna & kale salad and it was such a change in diet for me that it was a huge boost in mental clarity, and feeling weightless. It really has an effect on mood, depression or day to day activity

[@RealTDragon]

you know you didn't have to make this... but you did. Thank you mate!

[@TheChiptuner]

As an aspiring VFX artist and KZbinr, I really needed this video. Burnout and mental health are huge and sometimes it’s hard to be as passionate as I was when I started. One step at a time.

[@peterpitcard]

Well, to be honest, this is exactly what iam struggling with the past 6 months or so, it makes me lay down in bed and don't wanna get up at times. It eats you away so to speak. Lack of motivation and deprivation is the killer, i'm telling you! Thanks for this video, it helped me a lot. Now i have to take those advices and turn them into action, which is another story. You know what i'm talking about. But i'm positive that i will make it step by step! Thanks again :)

[@FlashGaems]

I appreciate you! I just started a “mental toughness” challenge called 75 Hard that was created by a man named Andy Frisella. For the past three years, my mind has been in the slumps, and I let it impact my relationships negatively. I’m tired of feeling the way that I do everyday, and that is why I am embarking on this 75 day long journey of exercise, drinking a gallon of water everyday, sticking to a diet, and reading books, all while gaining mental fortitude and self-discipline. This video came out at the perfect time. Thank you 🙏

[@MW395385]

Update?

[@kinyamadege__6235]

What works for me is a reading. No music. No distractions. Just quiet and a book. Its like exercise for the mind, and the feeling you get after reading the denouement is beyond comparison. It requires you to use your brain, which I can't say for most mediums.

[@Pogomix]

Good advice. Thanks for this!

[@ian_jones]

Bro low key needs a podcast. Your voice and your creative ideas work perfect. Just make sure to get it to Spotify.

[@Pogomix]

Thanks Ian. :)

[@franklinkendrick944]

Music certainly is essential to getting into a flow state for me. I also keep playlists of movie trailers and scenes to channel as energy when needed. I would add for those looking to balance work/creativity/and general well-being, keep a whole day reserved to be spontaneous. Relax. Let your mind steer you. I find that day of resetting is so helpful to give my brain a break. Also read a book at night! It activates a different part of your brain than watching visual media. Thank-you for these tips, Nick. Your music has gotten me through countless hours of work!

[@betterideas]

Amazingly well spoken. Excellent points on diet. Careful with the tuna! You might already know this, but just in case -- it's pretty easy to OD on mercury if you eat too much tuna. This can worsen brain fog, cause severe depression, etc. Thanks for the great video!

[@Imsety]

Nice seeing you here!

[@spiritualohgeesy2028]

little did i know that my childhood favorite dj would be giving his fans informative self improvement advice. great video man

[@sherlock7898]

Generally good advice given in a deep speaking voice. Very nice!

[@noname_straykid]

Like you've said "It's important to put yourself on your to-do list and not just stuff you want to get done". A month ago I realised that I don't let myself to make myself happier, I scold myself for relaxing. It's really depressing. So I started to keep a "wishes-list" where I write all the things I want: to buy a cool jamper, to go ski, to call my old friend etc. Of course it doesn't solve all problems, but it certainly helps to be more happy with life

[@carstenaltena]

Here's a tip that has worked well for me: don't open your email or DM-apps before noon. Emails and messages often distract you from doing creative work in the morning. Don't worry about missing important messages. If it's really important, people will probably call you.

[@Pogomix]

Such a good idea. Thanks!

[@carstenaltena]

@@Pogomix Why thank YOU for the great suggestions in the video, not to mention the great music :)

[@stefanrousseau2465]

Like all the suggestions especially blocking your time out for certain tasks and even having certain days for certain work. Habits are super powerful. The only thing I would do differently is eating less meat and rather supplementing it with plant proteins alternatives.

[@user-bj2lu9qt3o]

Most important for me was to learn to not blame myself anymore if I'm not able to get things done. The feeling of guilt was worse than anything. Yet it's true - this is about your true potential, very important and I'll try to have a look into that.

[@darlingimscared]

This reminds me to get back to what I should be doing even if it's one hour of FL studio a day five days a week. I've fallen into gaming the past few year's and this video made me remember the true feeling of contentment and excitement of working on a project.

[@mrnoface3840]

For a long time I dreaded going out and I just labeled myself an introvert. But in reality i think it was that frustrated fear of having no outlet for "creative productivity" and an overwhelming since of guilt if I wasn't being "productive." You put that into words that resonated for me. I need to start viewing my outings and social breaks as a relief not a burden.

[@sammurn6039]

Mental health is so important. I need to cut back on alcohol. It's been too easy of a crutch in this crazy year. Also have had almost zero social interaction beyond people at work. Your videos are so inspiring. I can see the creative energy in your eyes, and that's a really awesome thing. I feel like I was that way 10 years ago, and it's been lost over the years. You make me feel like I can get there again.

[@Saber-ez5vl]

I've had a lot of troubles to motivate myself back then when I actually started creating something. The thing is I was mostly hurt by people who were jealous of what I could actually create, they would always let me down and make me feel horrible. But at the same time I was thinking like "But that's not really my problem you can't do that or you don't do anything to actually improve your skills" or etc. At one moment, I just stopped everything, because I couldn't handle the fact that whatever I created nobody took my work seriously or would bully me and etc. I could never stop what I really liked doing, even if I forced myself to stop. It's great, yeah, hanging out with people, but that was never in my to-do-list, I've never found people interesting somehow and I don't really know why. Now, I'm finding myself a better person, because I found my place where I can express myself, not fully yet, but I'm surely feeling more free than before. I've found my inspiration in games, they give me an opportunity to dive into something new, something that would help me to constuct my imagination, make it wider. I wish I had an access to games early in my childhood, I think it would have helped me a lot to deal with everything I had there. Also, Pogo, I know, maybe It's a cliché thing, but I discovered your music and I found it very interesting and somehow it opened my mind what you actually can do with any sound on this planet, basically. This music helps me to express myself, so I started creating music as well, the style is different, but it's inspired by yours. So, I would like to thank you for "helping" me when I was 13 years old. Now I understand, how much I value my work and I love the fact that I improve where I want to improve. I stopped using internet as a source of validation about 3 years ago, and I surely feel so much better without it. I'm surrounded by people who are now inspired by me and it's an incredible feeling, to be honest. Stay safe and wish you lots of motivation, Pogo! Peace.

[@ProxyDoug]

For animators, there's usually the discussion on whether you should listen to music while working or not. Richard Williams wrote on The Animator's Survival Guide about when he asked Milt Kahl about it and he said he wasn't smart enough to think about two things at the same time. To me, I very much prefer listening to something, usually podcasts or essays when there's something I want to know about or music when I want to set a specific mood. I'm fine with silence, but I noticed that when I'm not listening to anything, my work tends to get more mechanic and I start thinking about the number of frames something should take than how a specific motion feels like.

[@I_am_Mic]

This is even better than any premium "become famous instantly" subscription club combined.

[@robayala3167]

I’m in this heavy rut of just laying in bed all day , smoking weed and only really going out to see my friends. I also drown myself in the ideas of “what if’s” and I become anxious and unconfident and miserable and I all I can do is cry and feel bad for myself. POGO thank you so much for this video your music was lifts me, and to see this motivational video from you, is the best feeling ever

[@pikab2001]

What we are putting into our bodies and into our minds is soooo key here. Yes, that inflammation is the worst! When I create, I try not to take myself to seriously and just create! That is like the biggest burden that holds SOO many back from their potential, thinking they need to get it perfect right away. It takes repetitiveness and you will see your craft grow like a mighty Oak Tree. Know your not the best at something? Who cares, try it anyway. You are your own worst critic and once you are released from the lies you speak over yourself, boy o boy, you will see amazing things develop! Thanks for what you do Nick. This has inspired me to get to moving my body and exercising. I am terrible at that, but your right, when you do, you feel the mental benefits instantly!

[@spyN09]

This is absolutely spot on. Love the way you explain it.

[@Teachthetrees]

Man I really needed to hear this stuff. Thank you. The only thing is, I tend to be pretty creatively dead until my brains been going for a while. I do better at night after being awake for awhile. but that will vary person to person, I think the relevant point is to pay attention to when you're at your best and plan accordingly.

[@Didgeman80]

Just to add to what you said at the end of your video about how you are deprived of your creative outlets when you travel, it's so true! And when you are a creative person who is constantly in to their creative projects, it can be very hard. But the benefit of being deprived and taken away from those outlets is that it is a time that will really sharpen and focus your priorities. If you're like me and you have lots of project in your mind, some for work, some for interest and some that just need to b done....(say for family or household), you will think the most about the ones that are most important to you when you are away and the whole process can really help you to feel motivated, charged, excited and read to move forward with a plan and maybe even a timeline. Nick, as for the rest of your video, I couldn't agree more. I turned 40 this year and 3 years ago, I went through many diet changes to figure out what was wrong with me. I now know that I have fibromyalgia and gluten triggers it, so three years ago, I completely cut out gluten and it's a game changer for me. I avoid dairy except for Friday -homemade pizza night- as dairy seems to bog me down. I avoid refined sugar but can completely fall off the wagon when things like toblerone and mini eggs hit the shelf....ha! You're bang on with your philosophy, I couldn't agree more. Some people never realise the correlation between all of these things while others seem to not have to and can eat whatever. It's ll about knowing you. Keep the tunes and positive energy flowing! :)

[@calm2348]

Running a creative business with my wife (which is truly endlessly motivating and engaging), but certainly foregoing diet and exercise in the meantime. Haven't even tried to really make music in years now. Used to be a real habit for me, making music, being a conduit of inspiration and ideas. I'm not as torn up about it now that I've left the office life 9-5, but these tips of yours are certainly a wake-up call in terms of my mood and energy as I'm navigating a young small business in a pandemic and wondering where my musicality has gone off too. Thanks for doing these videos.

[@GhostedMcGee]

I've struggled with depression the longest time isolating myself. This is amazing advice for myself, thank you pogo. ❤

[@BinaryPLUR]

This was extremely profound, as someone who felt like they hit a wall with their own creative work, this was much needed, especially this year. Thank you so much Pogo. What an inspiration.

[@auniversa]

Similarity does that to people.

[@petar1008]

The feeling which is inside you is being imprinted in your creation. No matter how hard you try you will imprint how you feel. Ideal is that brain is turned off and you just let it flow. So if you do something with joy than that creation will radiate joy. If u do it with thinking how much attention you will get you will create "noise" of course. (unfortunately many people today like that nouse) And to you Pogo I just wanna say: "You know... back when I was at the Academy, we used to follow every toast, with a song" :D That creation is pure, but pure JOY. Thanks. Im embarrassed how many times ive listened to that :) Point is, do what u enjoy doing.

[@esmeralda7060]

I tried a very similar routine and stuff when I was depressed, and it literally almost disappeared, so thank you for sharing this with us! I swear it's very useful

[@virginia-leefinnell254]

I'm struggling with depression at uni rn. I love Pogo's music and have wanted to work on my mental health/ productivity. This video came at a great time. Thank you for sharing Allison.

[@AdamTheBeast]

This is all so perfect. Love the subtle touches like lighting and no music to add to the mood. Love the message and how you explained it perfectly. “You can’t make energy out of nothing”.

[@planetrossco]

Great advice. I do a lot of what you suggested and it works for me. Especially the exercise. I find the biggest killer of my creative motivation is my 9-5 job. All day at work I think about my creative projects, but by the time I finish work I find it hard to get motivation to be creative.

[@DevinC_]

I like to do my art when I wake up and the days I'm at work I reflect on how I can improve and look at other artists. I never get bogged down on needing to do it every day.

[@basscliff55]

This is by 𝕗𝕒𝕣 - The most innovative, educational, and uplifting KZbin video I’ve come across in years. How to tap in and boost motivation and productivity. I think youv missed your calling Sr. Maybe thy’r are much like this out there, this one speaks to me directly. Thank you so much for even sharing your process. You won’t find that with most people at all. Thanks again.

[@TimSmithWordSmith]

Measured, controlled and clearly reasoned. Thank you. I find the constant flow of ideas to do something new and exciting more distracting than anything else. That’s not to boast, in fact quite the opposite. I find myself more in love with the idea of the idea than actually carrying it out. Carrying it out is hardest thing, because I’m afraid of the disappointment of my execution. One of the narratives I hold onto goes like this: You start out with great taste. You have great taste in music, or art, or literature, or whatever it is that you love and measure on a daily basis. Eventually you want to emulate that craft and you start to to create, but because you have this great taste, your creations fall short of your expectation. This is where most people give up. If you can push through the hundreds, thousands, and tens of thousands of hours that it takes to get to something that you feel is worthy, then that’s where you can start to feel like you’re doing something good, worthy. The work is in the journey, and from then on in, it’s from the production of that journey that you find greatness.

[@zerotalentstudios4105]

I have found the morning is where I'm mentally the strongest as well, and I definitely should divide the hours of the day into something more productive because I do have a good work ethic I just need to be reminded of it.

[@Zageron]

Interestingly I find that for my full time job I am most productive in the morning, but for my personal creative projects I work best as a night owl. This is detrimental since I get up at 6-7am to start full time job, and have to go to sleep by 9--cutting short my personal time.

[@Zageron]

And thanks for sharing! :)

[@exorcie]

I absolutely adore when a video of such type as this one is made with zero jumpcuts. Great job, very pleasant to look and listen to.

[@Rickshaw_Bohammer]

What works for me is recreation at least a few times a week. I rock climb and that brings me zen. I have goals, exercise, problem solving, and challenges physically/mentally all in one. If I don’t climb for a week I become irritable. I’m even building a wall in my basement and various blocks/hangboards which gives me creative freedom/outlet. Then it motivates me to eat well too, all around great sport to motivate me and improve my mood!

[@AtlasVRC]

I'm sort of figuring this out right now. The 45 minute blocks seems appealing. When it comes to diet I am far more complicated. I live in an area with hot summers and very cold winters so my appetite changes seasonally, in the summer I crave salad and raw crispy veggies with a dip like hummus but the winter calls for heavier meals with spice, meat and potatoes. But I've never lived "in tune" with who I am inside, I've just worked jobs I hate to make money. This process of getting to know myself has been difficult. But this video helps. Thank you.

[@Jordan-be3nn]

This resonated with me, I can relate to much of what you said. Your perspective on some of the topics mentioned is something I'd never really thought about in, especially the brain behaviour. This has helped give me clarity. Thanks mate, all the best!

[@HeyItsPaul]

I don't care about outcomes so much, but I do feel that the result of finishing is what I love the most. The feeling of having written. I do enjoy the process of writing music, but I find the mountain of resistance when it comes to starting the process. It takes the most effort to get over that first hump.

[@voidandnon-2530]

As someone who has made music for 12+ years, I've never heard anyone say it so clearly. I remember when my mind transitioned from focusing on outcomes to focusing on process. I've never heard anyone else explain it so well. Thank you.

[@PixelSparrow]

I know a lot of people have said this but I needed this right now! I’ve had very little motivation to do my coursework, but after watching this I’m ready to buckle down and get it done. Of course this means I need to cut back on things like social media but in the end it’s worth it. Thanks for the wonderful advice.

[@buda3d2007]

Traveling to non western countries in particular is so good as you often have to think, act and communicate on a whole other wavelength, I felt like a kid again the first time I did this, I had an outlook I have not had since my childhood, so refreshing and great for my mental health at the time.

[@PatDaBaker851]

I've found that in the past whenever I find something that helps me be productive or boost my mental ability, I'll say "that's it! Haha!" and just start doing that one thing over and over again, like a "productivity button". But I then after a couple of days of just doing that one thing, just mashing that button, it just wouldn't work as well as it did the first time. I'd go back to where I was mentally, just having low motivation in general. And it's only until quite recently that I realized that there's no one singular thing that's just going to jumpstart my brain. It's a balance of many things, for me it's having variety in my life and taking care of myself. I got so caught up in trying find out how to be productive that I denied myself that balance and let the important things fall to the wayside. If anything, this video in a way validates the plans I've made for myself and it feels good to know it's not just me that thinks this way. Excellent video as always, man. Thank you.

[@planetplex]

Man I feel like I just need to keep watching this video over and over. I’ve heard a lot of talks about all of these kinds of subjects but man you just hit so much of it right on the head. Great thoughtful and experientially backed words on productivity and creativity thank you so much!

[@adrias4685]

There is so much wisdom to feast on in this video. I appreciate you. Sharing this video with people important to me.

[@natanmandala]

The process and taking the time to shape and create the sounds and melodies together, is definitely the best part. I can't lie, I have this thing where I will get to about 90% with a project, and then never finish it by structuring the song, etc, and that's something that I do alot. I have so many 90%'s in my arsenal of music, it's crazy when I think about it, but maybe that will come in handy in the near future, because I haven't completely structured it or put the whole thing together, who knows...SBN RESONATE

[@MattBeardless]

Been struggling a lot with anxiety and depression recently which has lead to a lot of the similar distraction, ego feeding and outright lack of motivation...needed this, seriously needed this from somebody I consider to be massively successful in what they do. Thank you dude.

[@RobertDempster32]

Time does disappear when you’re in the groove. I can look at the time at 2:00 and all of a sudden it’s 7:30! However after looking at the time, and especially if it’s getting late I tend to rush the final steps (in this case creating game concept art pieces) to my detriment. I’ll either push to complete it or leave it for the next day with fresh eyes and with a new creative perspective. I also agree with the importance of having a healthy diet, however in those creative moments I tend to forget to eat and drink. I continue to breath though....so that’s a good thing.

[@matthewdunham4]

These things are perfect to start in the new year! This has some awesome info in it!

[@starstump]

Thanks for your amazing tips, Nick! Keep up your awesome life style and keep making beautiful music! We all appreciate the content you provide for us!! 😃

[@Pogomix]

Super kind of you. Thanks Stump!

[@GNmixing]

Its always good to get a reminder on those things from someone I respect. Thanks mate, right on time.

[@Peeriemoot_]

Weirdly enough I listened to a really good video by HealthyGamerGG about motivation and ego and the different types of motivation people experience and it was really helpful in helping me understand the way I get motivated isn't wrong it's just different from how others are motivated to create. I'd highly recommend going watching that as well but this video was really helpful Nick. Hammered home some points I've been thinking about recently, that and the fact I need to just take a step back, ask myself why and listen to my body and mind and on what it needs. Cheers for the info my dude, keep doing you. :)

[@draco6061]

@Pogomix I love that you actually give a definition of motivation with this. I got a ton of 'motivational' crap thrown at me in the army, to include books and podcasts by other vets. Very few of those ever tried defining 'motivation', and I think because most of them are actually dependent on ego. And what they market to their readers as 'motivational self help' is really closer to 'heres how I developed my g-d complex and you can to' lol. Love your work Mr. Pogo. Please keep producing great music and videos like this. I hope I can meet you in person some day.

[@WesleyWhiteside]

One activity I think often gets overlooked at as an adult is doing math. Simply doing some math problems will bring blood flow to your brain, allowing you to think more critically. I then feel more creative afterwords and want to release that energy into writing.

[@Happyfortunestudio]

Pogoooo I’ve been watching you for maybe... 12 years.... thank you for shaping me as a musician and being such an inspiration 🙏🏻🎧🎵🎧🎵

[@reilific]

Approaching 30 and starting to see the massive effect of diet on my mood/motivation/and clear headedness. (Beer especially). Very important to not go after this all at once and juggle it all but to go after it gradually to a point where it is the new lifestyle. Preaching to myself here. Thanks Pogo - and keep up the good work.

[@yourqualia6341]

You just dropped some incredibly helpful tips for free. You are a legend, thank you for this.

[@GREY-te1vm]

I tried keto this year. I did feel a difference, but I eventually stopped during the pandemic. I've not been discouraged and I hope to begin the process again next year. Watching this video has made me want to sustain a healthier lifestyle and improve my productivity as an artist.

[@leovinusadams4657]

Very straight to the point advice and I just bought the War of Art on Audible. I'm a lighting designer on weekends and I have very little time to physically be creative. Thank you for sharing this.

[@Pogomix]

My pleasure. Enjoy it! Mine was an audiobook, too. Pressfield reads the book himself. :)

[@andrewvinci5124]

This is such a great, concise, way to convey "how to live" and be 95% applicable to most people; work vs play, social media, exercise, diet, and socializing, and littered with helpful tips and thoughts! These 'non-song' videos are brilliant too - please keep them coming! *goes off to grab a drink of water

[@FLUFFCHIRP]

Just finished watching this, finally. I find it intriguing how I've done nearly everything you mentioned, except for the part about cutting bread off my diet, making a schedule, & not working at night. I may need to try that! Thanks again!

[@luisagallegos9202]

I just found you! Your music is everything and more Well done You hit every emotion in my 39 old heart the videos take me back to a joyful loving and wanting to be loved So thank you. As for all you advice I agree 💯 I got weights here at home . My creativity is my kids .I'm a hard worker since I was 16 on my 49 th job so that's always feels 10 hours up to 16 hours so I love how you break things down your very smart keep it up .I imaged myself jumping around in a crowed right here with you on my TV it was fun my 57 year old mother was loving it and so was my 2 daughters 23,10 years old 😂.my grandbaby is 3 months and she had the happiest smile watching all of us dancing .I do feel tired and depressed at times but all ways look for outlets I love going to the high school to walk the track and use the steps thank you again it's been really fun!

[@bradenwilson]

This is brilliant Nick! Thank you so much for putting this together...

[@SLoN1ckTV]

Watching 2nd minute and it feels like you're basically answering the most sacred questions of my last 2 years. Thanks a lot for this!

[@cotdd]

Great video. I've gone through a bit of a lull this year, which started before all of the covid stuff. Kind of a creative block mixed with an existential crisis. Started paying more attention to my diet as well, but have never gone to a gym in my life. Should probably start going. Keep it up, dude!

[@AdaRyKe]

Thanks for this, very pleased to see this aspect of your work. Thank you for taking the time to do these type of videos Pogo.

[@85Dragonball]

I absolutely love this video right now. Exactly what I need

[@Zageron]

Severe depression hit me for the first time in my life this August/September, right after the most success I had ever had with self motivation and exercise. It was 100% the lack of social interaction. My biggest hurdle right now is definitely finding my creative passion. I love music, I love reading, and I love creating games, but I struggle immensely to produce or stay focused for longer than a few days. I will take much of this video to heart. (I already exercise daily and take cold showers, but I need to work on social interaction and scheduling my days, I think ) Thanks for the excellent video! :)

[@cbruben]

You are a true virtuoso! Thank you for all your beautiful music.

[@AikiraBeats]

I know for me personally I started using a lot of other people's melodies and hear what people have and see how they make the melodies so I really enjoy the process and it makes me feel motivated in a way of discovering something new

[@Chris-gp5yq]

Profound and very thoughtful. Thank you for your energy mate.

[@HecmarJayam]

Thank Nick! Awesome way to close this rather difficult year.. all the best!

[@Nostalgianerd]

Coming to the end of the year, this has helped align a lot of thoughts I had floating around my head, but really need to commit to. Thank you.

[@kookies5299]

I've been thinking about this productivity malarky a lot recently especially since I've been forced to work from home and my social life has been restricted to Discord and Zoom meetings. From my perspective, Nick is spot on. I recommend daily planning, making clear physical and mental boundaries between work and play, and getting at least 7 or 8 hours of sleep in. Oh, and at least 1 hour a day on Cyberpunk 2077 😉

[@VestaJ17]

You have no idea how helpful and inspiring you are

[@jozendesu]

One of my biggest things is cutting down on social media, I used to have an unhealthy relationship with it, but now I feel like I'm in control. I honestly feel like I'm a sharpened sword without any targets to cut down. I'm not really sure what I want to do anymore, I thought it was music, but it seems to be too much of a chore these days. Maybe I need to gather inspiration like you do.

[@kokobieldraws7842]

This is incredible. A lot of these are things I wish I knew years ago, diet and exercise being some of the key points people don't often think about. The importance of exercise on brain function is so understated it's unreal. Our brain isn't just in our heads our body is full of neurons. Some of the first creatures with a neural system used it purely for locomotion and would digest it as soon as it found a source of food. Similarly locomotion is just as important for us in maintaining our inherited, evolved neural systems. My personal approach to diet and time management is a bit different but that's more to do with my personal goals. I embrace the time spent where I forget about eating, it's helped me a lot in keeping consistent with intermittent fasting which has numerous health benefits when you get past the initial brain fog. Rarely do I feel like I need a break from work anymore, but on the days that I do what I found most helpful is about what you said, I'll do one percent of the work and then go do whatever it is that's been on my mind. My brain will naturally start craving a return to my work.

[@taylorlars3415]

Wonderful insight! Thanks for the taking the time to share. Been following you from the early days. Love seeing the whole story along the way too

[@grayman735]

It's really nice to have someone talk about solutions and not just the problems in life. Thank you Pogo😏

[@CJWarlock]

This is so much on point and so holistic (wholesome if you will), dear Pogo that I listen to this for pure pleasure and joy of experiencing wisdom of a brotherly soul. Thanks. Cheers!

[@pyredynasty]

I’m not a hoarder I’m just building my vault of creative energy.

[@Broxine]

One thing i learned over the years: First comes DISCIPLINE (do it daily, no matter if it makes fun) THEN comes MOTIVATION by seeing your RESULTS. A lot of guys search for motivation in endless motivational Videos, and they are motivated for... 10 Minutes... First comes DISCIPLINE, Motivation comes later automatically from Discipline (seeing results)

[@RWMunchkin12788]

Always a joy to find out more about how creative folks do what they do. Sadly, other than the general healthy lifestyle bits, my life just doesn't allow for the sorts of work structuring and time usage. As making music is a side hobby and not my occupation, that time you describe as (paraphrased) "I can't do work during this time because my mind is gone and it's not worth it, I should do something therapeutic" is frequently the only time I could possibly get. Being a father of 2 is a joy, but wow my brain has abolished flow states to make room for hyper awareness of my kids.

[@JoshuaFishIndeed]

I just started a new job as a video editor, and these tips are great! I never realized how much editing would keep me in my own head, so making time to hang out with friends and family has been super important for me. Even if you think “it’ll only take a few hours to finish this project up!” take the time to socialize in some way or another. Your mind, body and soul will thank you!

[@CasualGamerPlays]

Very good advice, you need a Master Class. I needed to hear this. What holds me back is my job. It's very depressing and it kills all of my creativity. Nothing like working at company that hires you for design but, you don't design. I would like to stay away from sugars like ice cream, which is a big one for me, as i do find it blocks or clogs your brain, your thinking. I do find it useful to wake up super early to get my day started, whether it's working on a logo design, cleaning up, working out, etc. Thanks for the video, very helpful tips, especially the one about making a motivation folder. Not sure if you are to just throw anything in there without organizing it but, I'm going to try it. It may help when I'm working on graphic design projects.

[@Pogomix]

So glad you took something from it. Sugar is definitely a killer for me. Ice cream, Skittles, chocolate covered snakes, uuuhhh. Feels amazing for about 20 minutes. Then you find yourself glued to the couch losing the will to live.