Books · by Rohan Mehta · 2026-09-24

Is there a simple rule of thumb for fiction after a few failed attempts?

My current rule is simple: if it takes less than 9 minutes to prepare, I am much more likely to keep doing it.

My current rule is simple: if it takes less than 6 minutes to prepare, I am much more likely to keep doing it.

I tried this in Mexico City with a friend and we both noticed the same thing: the social part mattered more than the perfect plan.

9 sparks · 7 comments

Comments

Gentle Orbit · 5 likes

I would start with the thing that already interests you, then branch outward by creator, era, or theme. If two options look equal, choose the one that is easier to reverse.

- Start small and make the next step obvious.
- Keep notes so you can compare what worked.
- Ask someone with recent experience, not just strong opinions.

That should give you a solid first pass.

Rohan Mehta · 0 likes

This is the gentle version of my rant.

Kabir Khan · 0 likes

Respectfully, I see it the other way.

Zeynep Demir · 4 likes

I would ask what outcome you want in two weeks, not in some ideal future. That makes the choice much clearer. The the kitchen detail changes the whole answer.

Kanya Srisai · 1 likes

I would ask what outcome you want in two weeks, not in some ideal future. That makes the choice much clearer. The low-effort version is probably the keeper.

Marco Conti · 1 likes

Great point, especially the part about attempts. I learned that one the expensive way.

Miguel Santos · 0 likes

This feels a little overrated to me, even if the intention is good. That is the kind of detail beginners miss.