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Do What You Can't

What’s Your One Year-Defining Thing? ⚡


What’s Your One Year-Defining Thing?

sent by Chris Dodson | June 19, 2025

We're halfway through 2025.

What will you look back on in December and actually be proud of?

Not another successful quarter. Not hitting your targets again.

Something that helped you grow.


Misogi: Your One Year-Defining Thing

Here's the idea: Pick one thing that scares you.

Not for your company. Not for likes. For you.

It could be physical. A marathon. HYROX. Your first triathlon.

It could be personal. Starting that business. Moving countries. Learning a new language.

It could be creative. Launching a podcast. Writing a book. Building something with your hands.

The what doesn't matter. The stretch does.


Why This Matters More Than You Think

Your work can expand to fill every available hour. But it won't necessarily expand you.

Growth often stems from discomfort. Whether it’s tackling a physical challenge, or confronting fear, discomfort is a catalyst for improvement.

One meaningful challenge creates:

  • New stories to share at home (& at work)
  • New standards you didn't know you could meet
  • New self-belief that changes everything else

Make It Real

Your comfort zone is not your friend. Challenge it.

Pick your thing.

Write it down. Tell someone. Put a date in your calendar.

My AI Desktop Command Center

Here's how I set up my desktop for maximum AI efficiency and to reduce context switching:

Step 1: Create Your AI Dashboard

  • Pin ChatGPT and Perplexity widgets to your desktop
  • Add quick-access shortcuts for voice input
  • Use the Notes widget to house your prompt library for easy access

Step 2: Build Out Your Prompt Library

Remember, the goal isn't to replace your thinking. It's to amplify it.

I keep pre-built prompts ready for common tasks:

  • Strategic thinking: "Analyse this decision from 3 different frameworks..."
  • Content creation: "Rewrite this for a C-suite audience in 100 words..."
  • Problem solving: "What are 5 approaches I haven't considered for..."
  • Refining Unstructured Thoughts: "Take these scattered ideas and organise them into a clear, actionable framework..."

The prompt structure that consistently delivers the best results, in my experience, comes from one of OpenAI's co-founders:

Until next time.

- Chris

P.S. Have feedback or a build? Reply to this email. I'd love to hear it.

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