What does practically efficient mean?

There isn’t and never will be a one-size-fits-all machine or workflow. There are so many ways of doing things, but in the end, it’s very simple. I think things should just work, and I think it starts with us. We are the conductors of our workflows.

I define a workflow as a concert of hardware, software, and human-to-machine interactions uniquely tuned to an individual person. In this way, a workflow is a pragmatic, yet artistic expression that leads to greater efficiency.

In my mind, a workflow — no matter how simple or complex — should help you get better at living. If it doesn’t, it should be discarded or changed. Tools should extend our abilities, not define them.

“Practically efficient” is admittedly a double entendre. It’s abstract. It’s me. But in general, to me, being practically efficient is about finding workflows and systems that enhance our natural abilities, not striving to conform ourselves to processes.

It’s also about recognizing that the endless pursuit of perfection typically leads to frustration and failure.

Journeys toward perfection are asymptotic pathways. Getting there isn’t half the fun; it’s all the fun. In the end, we should find efficient ways of doing things; but let them be ways that allow us to continue to be ourselves. Practical efficiency is really about balance. Be practical, be efficient, but remain human.

Above all, regularly refine and celebrate the means you take to your end.