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Morning — Clay here.

Lately I’ve been noticing something about my days: the more I try to cram in, the less I actually get done.

And that ties directly into today’s reflection — the lie we keep believing about multitasking, and the cost it quietly adds to our relationships, our focus, and our sense of presence.

Let’s get into it. 🔥

Multitasking Is a Lie

We’ve all tried it.

Answering an email on your phone while half-listening to your kid. Reheating your coffee for the third time. Thinking about tomorrow’s meeting while scrolling through notifications.

It feels productive.
But really, you’re just scattered—and you can sense it.

Here’s the thing most of us learn the hard way:
You’re not doing five things at once. You’re doing five things halfway.

And the cost adds up:

• You miss the moment your kid opens up.

• You skim the email and miss something important.

• You look up at the end of the day and wonder what you actually got done.

The truth is simple:
Your brain isn’t built for constant juggling. It’s built for focus.

When everything gets your attention, nothing truly gets your attention—including the people you love.

A Better Way

Try doing one thing—just one—and give it your full presence.

• Pick a task.

• Stick with it.

• Finish it.

• Then move to the next.

Even five focused minutes can reset the entire tone of your day.

Clarity doesn’t come from cramming more in.
It comes from doing the right thing well, with both feet in the moment.

Today’s Challenge

Single-task one thing.

A conversation with your wife.
Playing with your kids.
A work project.
Even just washing the dishes.

No phone. No multitasking. No bouncing between tabs.

Just you, doing one thing with intention.

You’ll be surprised how much better everything feels when you stop trying to be everywhere—and choose to be fully here.

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A Christmas Music Recommendation You Didn’t Ask For (But You’re Getting Anyway)

If you’re looking for something to get you into the Christmas spirit—but you can’t stomach another version of Santa Baby or Santa Claus Is Coming to Town—check out If On a Winter’s Night… by Sting.

It’s easily my favorite Christmas album. Instead of the usual holiday covers, it’s a collection of folk and traditional winter songs that feel calm, atmospheric, and genuinely seasonal. Perfect for early mornings, quiet evenings, or anytime you want a Christmas vibe without the commercial Christmas noise.

Quote of the Week

It’s funny how we treat our devices better than ourselves. When a phone freezes, we reset it. When our minds freeze, we push harder.

But we’re not meant to run nonstop.

A few quiet minutes without a screen, a short walk, a breather before diving back in—those tiny resets can change the whole day. They clear the noise, slow the pace, and make us more present for the people who matter.

Until next time—
Keep the fires burning,
— Clay

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