Every Level Has a Devil

Redefining Productivity

When someone asks me how things are going, I’ve developed a habit of replying, “Oh, I’ve been so busy.”

But why do I say that?

It’s almost as if I’m trying to validate myself—proving to others and, more importantly, to myself that I’ve been a productive member of society. But here’s the real question: does being busy actually equate to being productive?

The Illusion of Busy Work

Being busy feels like progress. But let’s face it—how often do we have a lingering task on our to-do list? It’s that one thing we keep pushing to the next day, week, or even month. Why does it sit there?

If it’s not important, why don’t we just delete it?

If it is important, why don’t we tackle it head-on?

Most of the time, we deprioritize these big tasks because they’re mentally draining, challenging, or downright uncomfortable. Instead, we fill our days with smaller, easier tasks that give us quick wins but little impact.

Busy vs. Productive

What if we replaced being “busy” with being intentional?

What if, instead of completing ten trivial tasks daily, we focused on achieving one meaningful outcome every day?

This might feel counterintuitive. We’ve been conditioned to equate activity with progress. But being busy can often be a form of procrastination—avoiding the hard, important things by drowning ourselves in the easy, less impactful ones.

Defining a Successful Day

Success looks different for everyone. For some, it’s about completing a predefined set of tasks, like delivering 100 packages or making 200 cold calls. For others—especially knowledge workers—success is more abstract.

In a two-year project, there might be days when you feel like nothing was accomplished and others when you feel like you made a breakthrough. That’s why it’s crucial to prioritize the tasks that truly matter, no matter how daunting they may seem. Growth comes from tackling challenges, not avoiding them.

Every Level Has a Devil

I recently heard a quote that resonated deeply:

“Every level has a new devil.”

Life and business are like a game. To move forward, you have to conquer the boss at your current level. And each new level brings a more complex challenge.

Here’s the catch: if you skip the earlier levels and their lessons, you won’t have the skills to defeat the final boss. Likewise, the struggles you face today prepare you for tomorrow. Looking back, you’ll realize those challenges taught you the skills and resilience needed to handle more significant problems. Move up to fast, and you are doomed to face challenges you are unprepared for. This can be described as the Peter Principle.

Stop Being Busy. Start Leveling Up.

So, what’s the takeaway?

1. Identify your current “devil.” What’s the big challenge you’re avoiding?

2. Face it head-on. Growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone. Sometimes, it’s best to “Eat the frog” first thing in the morning. You have the most focus in the morning, so this is the time to tackle the more challenging tasks.

3. Break down your big task or challenge into actionable steps. Specifically, what is the next action that could help move this forward? Then do it!

4. Stop equating activity with progress. Focus on what truly matters, even if it’s uncomfortable.

If you don’t defeat your current devil, you’ll stay stuck at the same level. Life rewards those who take on their battles head-on, learn from their failures, and level up.

Don’t just stay busy—be intentional. Find your devil, defeat it, and move forward.

Don’t get captured,

Imposter Syndrome – A Badge of Growth

I recently watched Demi Moore’s acceptance speech at the Golden Globes. There were plenty of moments in her speech that shocked and intrigued the audience—like when she shared how a producer called her a “popcorn” actress 30 years ago, and how she started to believe him. One of the most surprising revelations was that after over 40 years of being a famous actor, this was her first award.

Think about that: decades of iconic performances in movies like GI Jane and Ghost, and yet, no recognition until now. But what truly struck me wasn’t just the lack of awards—it was what she said about finally feeling like she belonged with her peers. We’re talking about Demi Moore! If someone like her can question their place in the room, it begs the question: why do so many of us struggle with the same feelings?

Imposter Syndrome: The Hidden Struggle