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March 11th, 2020 × #productivity#organization#planning

Soft Skills Tips

In this wide ranging soft skills episode, Scott and Wes discuss productivity techniques like creating prioritized to-do lists, getting ideas out of your head and into a system, and batching related tasks. They also cover communication skills, planning tools, and share career advancement tips.

Wes Bos

Wes Bos Host

Scott Tolinski

Scott Tolinski Host

or
Show Notes Transcript

In this episode of Syntax, Scott and Wes talk about soft skills tips — productivity, planning, communication, and more.

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Show Notes

2:20 - Productivity

  • Make a todo list and prioritize
  • Get ideas out of your brain
  • Use a tool like Notion as a second brain
  • Batch related things together
  • Recharge when you need it
  • Have a system and stick to it

16:34 - Finishing projects

  • Start
  • Do a little every day
  • Go all-in for a few days
  • Clearly identify what needs to be done (Github issues, todo app)

23:30 - Planning tips

  • I use Mind Node
  • Whimsical
  • Write it down when you have an idea
  • Put everything in a calendar

30:24 - Communication

  • Be honest and upfront with deadlines
  • Give yourself padding — many people are overly optimistic
  • Don't let people expect communication from you, at all, or at all times
  • Assume good intentions
  • Don't be a jerk to clients or coworkers

40:28 - Skill and career advancement

  • FDD — fun driven development
  • Share what you learn
  • Don't let other's progress get you down — there is always someone smarter doing crazier stuff
  • Solve your own problems
  • Apply and interview for anything that's interesting
  • Track your progress
  • I want to ___, I wish I could ____, You are lucky that you get to _____
  • Just start! Seriously. Plan on doing something.

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