How I Do Great Work
by Sigil Wen on Mar 22nd, 2026.
I believe I can make a significant positive dent on the universe, and I take my time and focus seriously.
My goal is to do Great Work which requires unapologetically operating in the way that suits my natural aptitude - know thyself.
Because I know I can do great work, I feel a strong responsibility/compassion for humanity and need to relentlessly achieve my full potential (no matter how much fear I feel - fear is often an indicator of what you should pursue).
The following is how I naturally work best, learned from thousands of deliberate iterations:
- I work insanely hard and don't keep a schedule. You want to execute the highest leverage / maximally information producing / courageous action with blistering intensity, swiftness and follow through. Afterwards rest, gather information & insight no one else has, then exercise your judgement on the next move. (See Why Greatness Can't be Planned and Naval on Work As Hard As You Can)
- I don't do meetings. My best work is done in long periods (8-20 hours) of highly concentrated focus. Meetings are very costly for me and break my flow as I best work on a Maker's schedule. I need to control my time. If you want to contact me, message / email or send me a voice message on Airchat.
- I will be whereever I can do my best work. Do not tell me where I should be, schedule a calendar invite, or come to where I am without my explicit consent with the expectation I should change my plans to meet you. This is one my biggest pet peeves and is incredibly disruptive to my work.
- I work with high integrity people, who are fiercely intelligent and capable. Integrity above all else. I take my word seriously. "Self-esteem is the reputation that you have with yourself. You'll always know."
- I (try to) think for myself. I don't do things just because everyone else does. I don't believe something that everyone thinks is true. This is important to building self-esteem and true confidence as you see the fruits of your own thinking.
I want to be one of the greats and thus cannot compromise on the above principles. I adapt my principles to work with my team on the greater mission.
For those who don't understand, unfortunately we are unlikely compatable to work together long term.
I appreciate your time reading this and understanding - I hope it inspires you to think critically about how you work best and value your time.
Be unapologetic and live authentically. Life is too short :)