I finished reading Paulo Coelho’s The Archer last night — it was a short read.

It’s a composition of cryptic life lessons from a master archer. I say “cryptic” because the interpretation of its content is highly dependent on the reader. It’s meant for someone who likes to read deep insightful-type of fiction books. Below is my main takeaway:

“Mastery” is when you’re able to perform in the worst conditions.

***

The Archer made me reflect on what’s happening at work right now: crazy busy.

It’s busy to the point where I have to make changes to my morning routine to keep up with the tight deadlines. That means I’m rarely writing and working out because I need to carve some time off to get shit done. I may be able to work late in the afternoon but my brain works a lot better in the morning. But such is the challenge I’m currently going through.

What’s happening right now is a way to test my prioritization skills and an opportunity to upgrade my stress tolerance level.

***

The only way you can get things done is by getting your act together to get them done.

It doesn’t matter how you do it. Regardless of the situation, you have to do it. The problem is not going to go away on its own. It requires effort…mad effort. But “mad” effort can burn you out if you’re not careful.

Putting in less effort makes me feel like I’m lazy. However, putting too much effort makes me feel like I’m being inefficient. There’s that middle line I need to hit to make me feel like I’m still in control.

That’s when I realized that effort is context-based.

‘Effort’ is not about your ability to check off a list. It’s based on the value of your actions. Each action weighs differently. But your ability to weigh each action highly depends on the situation you are in. Taking a break is bad if stopping means you’re gonna get burned. But taking a break is a must if you’re about to burn yourself out. Same action, different scenario.

That said, judge accordingly.