More than anything, Derek want to make lots of stuff. He want to make articles, books, websites, music, companies, systems, apps, and especially new ideas.

This shapes most of his life decisions. Saying no to almost everything, so he can have lots of time for making.

At the age of 14, Derek decided he wanted to be a successful musician. Knowing it’s something that millions want, but only one-in-a-million achieve, he knew he’d have to be fiercely focused, persistent, savvy, and work like an Olympic athlete in training. In other words, not casual.

Derek was single-focused obsessed with being a successful musician from age 14 to 29 — crucial years when many of his friends were feeling lost. It had him waking up early to practice, staying up late to write, saying no to all distractions, and reading whatever he could to improve. Then, at age 29, Derek accidentally started a company, so he was narrow-focused on creating that for 10 years, through the age of 39.

Derek also wants to learn lots of stuff, especially different approaches to thinking and living. That’s why he has read so much non-fiction, and wants to keep moving around the world.

He connects with those who stretch, strive, and grow. He can’t relate to those who chill, hang out, watch TV, party, etc.

Derek has optimized his life for creating and learning. He’s cut out most things from his life that most normal people do — (like hanging out or media consumption) — in pursuit of his bigger goal.