Follow Models, not Maps

Maps (templates, guides, etc) are helpful to follow at the beginning of your work. It's nice to learn from those who have gone before you, but there's a danger in always following someone else's map instead of charting your own path. As Seth Godin says "you have to draw your own map".

Instead, I teach productivity models over maps. Models mean you focus on the outcome and the unique path you take to success. You default to action and don't wait around for directions. Because of this you're able to integrate new lessons and feedback in real time and speed up the process.

There's nothing wrong with maps, I have several templates, i.e. productivity maps that you may have downloaded. It's a great starting point for planning a productive week or setting up your bullet journal - but the real magic begins when you take my ideas as a model for drawing your own map.