In this episode, Carl reflects on a provocative idea from the essay “Tool Shaped Objects”: The market for feeling productive is far larger than the market for actually being productive. From webinars about writing to habit books, templates, and optimization systems, it’s often easier to buy preparation than to do the work itself. Why? Because preparation feels like progress without exposing us to risk, rejection, or uncertainty. Doing the real thing is vulnerable. Carl turns the lens on himself—and on us—with a simple but uncomfortable question: Are you in the market for feeling productive or are you ready to actually be productive?
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