32. Idle Hands: How To Do Nothing to Be More Productive, with Andrew Smart

Feeling less than productive these days? It's a collective thing. The pandemic, and its aftermath, have slowed the productivity levels of virtually everyone.

Instead of accepting giving ourselves a much needed break from our pre-pandemic life time management regimen, we instead are deluged with news articles, podcast episodes and our social media feeds telling us how we can learn a new language, drop those last 20 lbs or even start our dream business with all that spare time we suddenly have during quarantine.

It’s about enough to make me want to zone out til this pandemic is over!

According to my guest on this show this week, neuroscientist, Google researcher,  and author, Andrew Smart, that may not be altogether a bad thing – for a few moments of every day, at least.

Andrew's book, 'Auto Pilot: The Art and Science of Doing Nothing', offers a fresh perspective on the importance of everyday idleness.

In our chat, Andrew challenges us to reconsider our feelings and societal judgments on idleness, especially during the pandemic – and moving forward.

Find Andrew at andrewthesmart.com.  'Auto-Pilot' is available now at Or Books, and other fine booksellers.

Full shownotes at atelierwrede.com/32

Would you like a home that helps you be idle (and more productive)? Work with me 1-2-1 on a design action plan: atelierwrede.com/arrived.  Or book a complimentary Discovery Call: atelierwrede.com/contact