Authenticity vs. Productivity, Part 2 - "Just One Thing"

 So, what's the alternative to “one more thing”? I'd like to say the alternative is simply “one thing.” When you're fully present, your mind naturally focuses on one thing at a time. In our system, we call this: "there’s nothing to do, only to see." That means you remain present until you discern what your need is, what it is you want in that moment. Then comes the second principle: take the next step—no more, no less—and the next step will be revealed to you. We repeat this often: when you’re stuck, remember there’s nothing to do, only to see.

It’s about slowing down so you can be present with your body and your true self. By taking a moment to see what you really need, you can then decide what to do about it—just one step at a time. When you do that, the next step reveals itself naturally. This is powerful because it shows you that you don’t need, and sometimes don’t even want, to do one more thing. Often, as you’re about to add another task, you feel your body resisting—it’s signaling that you want to rest.

Focusing on one thing at a time builds a natural balance. Once that one thing is done, you move to the next, and a steady flow emerges. This practice is at the heart of what people call “deep work”: focusing on a single task for hours, which not only boosts productivity but also feels incredibly fulfilling. This approach triggers what we call slow dopamine—a steady, disciplined release—rather than the quick rush you get from chasing immediate desires.

Slow dopamine helps you stay focused and gives you a sense of progress. True discipline isn’t about forcing yourself; it feels good, produces real productivity, and builds confidence. When you follow your desires too rigidly, you risk becoming controlling because you’re always chasing the next experience. In contrast, non-attachment—focusing on the process rather than the outcome—brings a steady, satisfying sense of progress.

Consider the Zen garden. In Zen Buddhism, raking a sand garden is an exercise in discipline that releases slow dopamine and, at the same time, serotonin, which promotes relaxation. Once the garden is created, it’s erased, because the joy comes not from the finished product but from the process. This non-attachment reinforces that the value lies in being present—doing one thing at a time.

Interestingly, this practice involves more than just dopamine. GABA, for instance, plays a role in relaxation, working alongside dopamine as you engage in disciplined activities. As you focus on one task—like raking sand—you begin to notice subtle changes. You learn to relax, breathe better, and use your body more efficiently. This formal practice refines your actions and keeps your mind engaged, helping you notice things you might otherwise overlook.

Being present with your feelings—whether you’re hungry, thirsty, lonely, or inspired—is key. Your emotions signal what is alive for you in each moment. This “direct transmission” of insights through feeling not only makes your experiences more memorable but also accelerates learning and helps you apply new insights more effectively. In contrast, when you’re caught up in your head—dwelling on the past or worrying about the future—you miss the richness of the present.

As you stay present, your learning becomes profound. You begin to develop a broader perspective, eventually shifting from a first-person to a third-person mindset. You may even expand this view further—integrating time, purpose, and the broader context of your life. Some models describe this as evolving into a fourth, fifth, or even sixth perspective, where you connect with the universal rhythm and see yourself in the larger tapestry of existence.

This integrative approach is about being fully present while acknowledging the natural rhythms of life. For example, Taoist teachings show us that our energy fluctuates throughout the day. By tuning into our energy and following what we need at each moment, life becomes simpler and more balanced. The Taoists observed that everything—from the sun and moon to our own bodies—follows a natural rhythm.

In the Taoist model, the day is divided into segments based on the 12 meridians and the five phases (or elements): fire (birth), earth (stability), metal (definition), water (flow), and wood (expansion). This cycle mirrors the natural processes of the universe and our own bodies. Chinese astrology extends this further through the 12 zodiac animals, combined with the five phases, forming a 60-year cycle where every year brings a new aspect of growth and change.

Ultimately, the alternative to doing “one more thing” is to do just one thing at a time. By being fully present, following your natural energy, and allowing each next step to reveal itself, you not only enhance productivity but also nurture your well-being. This focused, step-by-step approach helps you learn, grow, and live in harmony with the rhythms of your life—and the universe.