My Exciting Experiment Of Typing Slowly On My Keyboard

Hi, my name is Olaf, and if you're new to this website, I just wanted to tell you that I'm a filmmaker from Iceland, and I've written and directed several films since 2003. I've also made film classes for Skillshare because I love sharing bits of my film & writing experience.

This blog post is a meditative journaling entry. A flowing of words. I delve into the introspective journey of how simple changes in my daily writing tools, in this case typing slower on my keyboard, impacts my thoughts. This reflection is not merely about adapting to a new typing style but a deeper exploration of how these adjustments resonate with my psychological well-being and productivity. Through the lens of slowing down and confronting discomfort, I navigate the intricate dance of habits, resistance, and self-awareness, seeking a balanced approach to sustainable growth and self-improvement.

The Experiment of Slowness

I often underestimated the physical aspects of my work environment, like the design and feel of my keyboard, yet I've come to realize they play a crucial role in my daily routine. This awareness led me to a fascinating (cough, at least to me) experiment: deliberately slowing down my typing to gauge its impact on my well-being and productivity. This method of slowing down has forced me to face the discomforts I usually avoid, unveiling the psychological challenges that accompany change.

Psychological Discomfort and Its Consequences

As I embrace this slower pace, I'm confronted with a mix of subtle yet intense discomfort—a psychological pain that stems from venturing out of my comfort zone. This discomfort has manifested in various ways, such as my hesitation to schedule tasks or make decisions, trapping me in a whirlwind of indecision and inefficiency. I feel like I'm being torn in different directions, each motivated by its own seemingly crucial agenda, similar to being pulled apart by horses with distinct, justifiable paths.

The Limitations of the "Just Do It/Hurrying" Mentality

In response to this resistance, I initially leaned towards a "just do it" mentality, in other words, "speed up again, this is too slow!". However, I've realized its limitations in the long term. Over reliance on this mindset of "hurrying" has become counterproductive, creating a self-defeating cycle where I seem to diminish in effectiveness and personal development, much like a snake eating its own tail.

In Search of a New Method

I now recognize the need for a new method, though defining it remains a complex challenge. It's not about completely abandoning the concept of taking immediate action but rather understanding where it falls short and finding a more balanced approach. I'm on a quest to discover strategies that support sustainable productivity and personal well-being, acknowledging that the discomfort of change is not just an obstacle but also a pathway to deeper self-understanding and enhancement.

In reflecting on my experiences, I've realized that the impact of something as commonplace as how I interact with my keyboard can be profound, affecting my psychological state and productivity. By embracing the discomfort of subtle change and seeking more nuanced, sustainable self-improvement methods, I'm learning to navigate the intricacies of personal and professional growth more effectively. This journey isn't solely about finding ease in newness but also about delving deeper into understanding myself and my work habits.

And come to think of it, I can't remember even saying "hi," to my keyboard before I start writing.