#meditation #mindfulness

Have you ever looked around and wondered “Where did all this stuff come from?” :)

The more I simplify, the more I can feel what really matters.

Start small:

– Say no without guilt

– Breathe before you react

– Step away from your screen when you’re not sure what to do next

– Let a task remain unfinished if your body is asking for rest

Every quiet no creates room for a louder yes...

Yes to presence.

Yes to peace.

Yes to noticing the world outside your window.

Some days, simplifying means doing less. Other days, it means doing things slower, softer, or with more intention.

Life doesn’t need to be packed to be meaningful.
Sometimes, the quiet days leave the strongest memories.

What could you remove this week?

In this video, I share how real self-improvement for me wasn't about adding more habits or systems.

It was about removing things, downsizing our home, decluttering our things, and simplifying daily life.

One year ago, we moved from a big house in the northern Finnish countryside to a small, convenient apartment in Helsinki.

Letting go of 70% of our belongings changed everything. Our space, our routines, and even how we work and rest.

I'm also sharing a personal list of things I've been removing from my life, for example over scheduling, toxic self-talk, comparing myself to others, chasing too many goals, fake urgency, and the pressure to always be available.

Sometimes, simplifying your life isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing less (but better).

Poem by William Martin:

Do not ask your children
to strive for extraordinary lives.
Such striving may seem admirable,
but it is the way of foolishness.
Help them instead to find the wonder
and the marvel of an ordinary life.
Show them the joy of tasting
tomatoes, apples and pears.
Show them how to cry
when pets and people die.
Show them the infinite pleasure
in the touch of a hand.
And make the ordinary come alive for them.
The extraordinary will take care of itself.

Many years ago, Rich Hickey (creator of the Clojure programming language) gave a talk that quietly changed how I approach problem-solving. It's called Hammock-Driven Development, and the core idea is simple:

Good ideas don’t always arrive when you’re sitting at your desk.

In fact, most of your deepest insights come when you step away. On a walk. In the shower. Staring at the ceiling. Or, as Hickey suggests, lying in a hammock.

Think. Sleep. Then Build.

We’re taught to optimize, plan, break big tasks into smaller ones, and grind our way to the finish line.

But Hickey flips that on its head.

He suggests a process that feels… slower. But smarter.

1. Soak your brain in the problem
   Read everything. Think. Doodle. Build a mental model. Not to solve it yet—just to load it into your head.

2. Let it rest
   Stop thinking about it. Let your subconscious go to work. Sleep on it. Step away.

3. Return with clarity
   After a while, revisit the problem. Patterns appear. Dead ends vanish. The right ideas show up, fully formed.

This isn’t lazy. It’s how some of the best ideas get made.

Deep Thinking Takes Time

Best ideas rarely happen in a meeting. Or with Slack open. Or when your mind is juggling 19 tabs.

It happens in the hammock.

Apply It Anywhere

You don’t have to be a developer to try this. Hammock-Driven Development is really just another way of saying:

Don’t force insight. Make space for it.

The solution is probably already there.
It’s just waiting for you to stop trying so hard.

Sources:

Rich Hickey's talk: Hammock Driven Development

"How to Solve It" (1945), by George Pólya

"Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman

"Deep Work" by Cal Newport

Then I developed a process to track what matters without obsessing over numbers.

This is what I did…

Define Your Purpose

• Write down why you're creating content beyond numbers

• Identify who you truly want to help with your videos

• Determine what "success" means for you personally

• Set intentions that aren't solely based on metrics

• Consider what you can uniquely contribute

Choose Meaningful Metrics

• Focus on engagement (comments, watch time) over vanity metrics. (Vanity metrics are numbers that might look impressive but don't necessarily reflect the true health of your channel, for example the total subscriber count.)

• Track retention to see where viewers connect most with content (when viewers tend to click away? You can see this in YouTube Analytics)

• Note which topics generate thoughtful comments

• Monitor growth trends over months, not days

• Pay attention to returning viewers over total views

Establish Healthy Routines

• Schedule specific times to check analytics (e.g. once weekly?)

• Create a simple tracking system for metrics that matter to you

• Have clear questions you want to answer when looking at data

  • Do videos posted at certain times of the week perform better?

  • Which thumbnails and titles are most effective at getting clicks from my target audience?

  • Are my videos reaching the audience I created them for?

  • …

• Close analytics tabs when not actively reviewing them :)

Interpret Data Mindfully

• Look for patterns across multiple videos

• Consider context before making conclusions

• Ask "what can I learn?" instead of "how am I doing?"

• View feedback as information, not validation

Growth Without Obsession

• Focus on serving your current audience before chasing growth

• Improve content quality rather than optimizing for the YouTube algorithm

• Celebrate “non-numerical” wins (like helpful comments, personal growth)

• Build connections with viewers who resonate with your message

• Allow space for content experiments without pressure

Set Reasonable Expectations

• Understand growth is rarely linear

• Accept that YouTube algorithm changes are beyond your control

• Recognize seasonal fluctuations are normal (like summer holidays, Christmas time, …)

• Give new content types time to find their audience

Maintain Perspective

• Remember why you started creating content

• Take breaks from analytics when feeling discouraged

• Celebrate progress, not just achievement

• Value sustainability over rapid growth

• Consider the impact on real people, not just numbers

Learn and Adapt

• Use data to understand what truly resonates with viewers

• Let analytics inform your content, not dictate it

• Test small changes rather than complete overhauls

• Adjust your approach based on meaningful patterns

• Use what you learn to better serve your audience

First filming from different angles, then cutting everything into tiny pieces with no clip longer than 5 seconds.

A 15-minute video meant juggling 180 separate clips! Then I'd spend hours adding subtitles on top of that.

I simplified my process by switching from silent videos to talking vlogs, which are not only more fun to create but take significantly less time to edit.

Best of all, these simpler videos actually provide more value to viewers.

Preparation

• Create a dedicated folder structure for each project

• Rename all raw files with clear, consistent naming system

• Import footage into your editing software before you begin editing

• Take a few minutes to speed watch your raw footage before starting

• Note the best sections to use and mark your favorite takes

Setup Templates

• Create a project template with your standard settings

• Save intro and outro sequences for reuse

• Build a collection of transition styles you like

• Make a simple lower-third text template

• Save your color grading presets

• Create audio normalization presets

• Set up keyboard shortcuts for your most common tasks

Streamlined Editing Process

• First pass: rough assembly with only your best clips

• Second pass: refine structure and flow

• Third pass: add b-roll (supplementary footage that adds visual interest, context, or illustrates what's being discussed in a video), graphics, and effects

• Apply the same editing pattern to every video

• Use standard music tracks across multiple videos (I use EpidemicSound for music)

• Keep a consistent visual style across all content

Minimalist Approach

• If something doesn't add value, remove it

• Aim for clarity over complexity

• Use simple cuts more often than fancy transitions

• Don't over edit

• Choose quality over quantity in effects and graphics

• Use silence and pauses for impact

• Sometimes "less is more"

Audio Workflow

• Remove background noise and filler words (e.g. with Descript you can do this automatically)

• Use simple, consistent background music (if any)

• Create a standard sound profile for your channel (I usually use calm piano music)

Export and Delivery

• Create a checklist for final review before publishing

• Save final project files in organized archive

Maintenance

• Review your workflow occasionally, can you simplify it?

• Remove any steps that aren't necessary

• Update templates with improvements

• Schedule regular time to clean up project files and media

Time Management

• Set a timer for editing sessions to prevent perfectionism

• Take regular breaks to maintain focus and perspective

• Decide in advance how long you'll spend on each video

• Finish editing one video completely before starting another

• If you're stuck on a section for too long, move on and return later

I spent countless evenings researching cameras, microphones, and lighting kits.

Fast forward today, and my setup is basically an iPhone, my laptop, tripod, and a DJI mic mini microphone.

Here’s how you can simplify your setup…

Essentials Assessment

• Identify the core elements needed for your specific content type

• Distinguish between "must-haves" and "nice-to-haves"

• Focus on versatile gear that serves multiple purposes

• Consider space limitations in your recording area

Video Equipment

• Select one primary camera (smartphone, camera, or webcam)

• Choose a simple, reliable mounting solution (tripod or desk mount)

• Determine if a second angle is truly necessary (many people move the camera between shots for a second angle)

• If using a smartphone, ensure sufficient storage space

• Consider battery life and power access for longer recordings

Audio Setup

• Invest in one quality microphone over multiple mediocre options

• Choose appropriate microphone type for your setting (e.g. lavalier microphone)

• Test recording environment for echo and background noise

Lighting

• Start with maximizing available natural light when possible

• Add one key light before considering fill or background lights

• Select lights with adjustable brightness and color temperature

• Consider space-efficient options (panel lights vs. softboxes)

• Test your lighting setup for consistent results at different times of day

Background & Set

• Use items you already own before purchasing "set pieces"

• Create a dedicated space that can remain set up between shoots (if possible)

• Ensure your background complements rather than competes with you

• Test how your background appears on camera

Storage & Organization

• Create a simple file management system for your content

• Establish one primary backup solution for your footage

• Designate a specific storage area for your equipment

• Label cables and accessories for quick identification

• Keep all essential equipment together in a ready-to-use state

Software & Apps

• Choose one primary editing software and learn it well

• Select the simplest option that meets your specific needs

• Limit plugins and extensions to those you regularly use

• Create and save templates for recurring project types

• Consider subscription costs in your overall budget

Mindful Purchasing

• Wait 30 days before buying new equipment to prevent impulse purchases

• Rent or borrow gear first to test before committing

• Focus on mastering existing equipment before upgrading

• Prioritize reliability and longevity over trendy features

• Consider used equipment from reputable sellers

Now I follow a calm, sustainable approach:

Assess Your Capacity

• Determine how many hours per week you can realistically dedicate to YouTube

• Account for filming, editing, research, and administrative tasks

• Consider seasonal changes or personal commitments that might affect your schedule

• Be honest about your energy levels and other responsibilities

Set Sustainable Publishing Goals

• Choose a consistent publishing schedule that feels challenging but doable

• Start with fewer videos rather than overcommitting

• Consider whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly uploads work best for your life

• Plan buffer weeks for rest or catching up

Content Planning Process

• Block dedicated time each month for batch planning

• Create a running list of video ideas that excite you (and your audience)

• Group similar topics for efficient batch filming

• Align content with seasonal trends when relevant

• Review analytics occasionally to inform future topics

Workflow Organization

• Break down each video into clear production stages

• Set internal deadlines for each stage (script, film, edit, thumbnail, publish)

• Create templates for repeated elements (intros, outros, descriptions)

• Establish a simple system to track progress of each video

Preventing Burnout

• Schedule regular "no content" days

• Build time for learning and creative inspiration

• Identify which tasks drain you most and consider outsourcing (or can the task be simplified?)

Emergency Planning

• Build a small library of "evergreen" videos ready to publish during unexpected disruptions

• Know which parts of your process can be simplified in a time crunch

• Identify which video types take less energy when you're running low

• Have a communication plan for subscribers if you need to take a break

Regular Review

• Schedule calendar reviews to adjust your approach

• Check in with yourself about satisfaction and sustainability

• Celebrate consistency milestones!

• Adjust publishing frequency based on life changes

Sound & Acoustics

• Choose a quiet time of day to record

• Use a microphone with a pop filter or foam windscreen

• Add soft materials (rugs, curtains, pillows) to reduce echo

• Turn off background noise (fridge, washer, notifications)

• Record a 10-second test clip to check for any hum or noise

Lighting & Ambience

• Face a window for natural light (or use a soft, warm lamp)

• Avoid overhead lights or flickering bulbs

• Add one cozy touch: a plant, books, candle, or soft textile

• Check for shadows or glare in your test shot

Camera & Framing

• Clean your camera lens (phone/webcam/camera)

• Use a tripod or stable surface

• Frame yourself with some headroom and a calm background

• Record a test clip to check posture, expression, and balance

Screen Recording Setup (if applicable)

• Clear your desktop of visual clutter

• Increase font size for readability

• Mute notifications and close unnecessary tabs

Intention & Calm Vibe

• Take a breath before you hit “record”

• Have water or tea nearby

• Let go of perfection — record with care, not pressure

• Imagine speaking to one person who needs this today

• Use editing software to remove pauses and mistakes (e.g. Descript)

Reminder: You don’t need a perfect space. Just a calm moment and a clear intention.