Hot(ish) Takes, Cool Heads - January 27th, 2026
Brief, conviction-without-hyperbole takes. One clear claim, one practical receipt, one question—and one way I could be wrong.
1) Craft beats clutter
Take: A smaller wardrobe of pieces you maintain and love outruns a closet full of almosts.
Why: When garments actually fit and get brushed/pressed/rotated, they look better, last longer, and are easier to reach for. Editing the closet cuts decision fatigue—you reach for the best, not the nearest.
Question: If you could keep only 10 core pieces for the next year, which make the cut—and what’s one “almost” you’ll retire this week?
If I’m wrong: Show me a cluttered wardrobe that delivers higher satisfaction, lower costs, and better daily outcomes than a curated one you actively maintain.
2) Be a regular at a third place
Take: Third places make first-rate lives—and being a regular (name remembered, “your usual” ready) adds joy you can’t order online.
Why: Familiar spaces reduce social friction and compound weak-tie connections. Recognition plus consistency turns errands into belonging, introductions, and a steadier mood.
Question: Where could you become a regular this month—a café, rec league, barbershop, church small group—and what simple rhythm will you repeat?
If I’m wrong: Convince me that hopping between endless new spots produces more connection, opportunity, and wellbeing than returning to one welcoming place.
3) Make others look good
Take: In business, generosity is strategy: give clear credit and crisp handoffs, and your reputation compounds.
Why: People champion colleagues who make their work easier—naming contributors publicly, sending clean summaries, and pre-empting blockers. A same-day handoff note often cuts “idle time” by at least a day because owners, dates, and dependencies are explicit.
Question: What’s one habit you’ll start this week—public kudos in the wrap-up email, a same-day handoff note with owners/dates, or a 3-bullet “what I need from you” summary?
If I’m wrong: Show me teams where hoarding credit and sloppy handoffs lead to faster projects, better relationships, and more repeat opportunities.