I would work until I got stuck, and I would put it down and pick up something else. I might be able to take a 20-minute nap and get to work again. That way, I was able to work about 10 hours a day... It was important to me to work every day. I managed to work on Christmas day, just to be able to say I worked 365 days a year.

In this quote, Donald Hall reflects on his relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft. He explains how, when he encountered obstacles or got "stuck" in his work, he would step away, try something else, and return after a short break, such as a 20-minute nap, to get back to it. His ability to work around challenges and his commitment to consistent productivity allowed him to work about 10 hours a day, despite the inevitable interruptions or moments of fatigue.

Hall emphasizes the importance of working every day, even on holidays like Christmas Day. This was not just about fulfilling daily tasks, but about having the discipline and determination to maintain a routine throughout the entire year. By choosing to work even on Christmas, Hall was driven by a need to feel like he had worked 365 days a year, demonstrating his intense commitment to his work and his desire for perfection in his output.

The quote reveals Hall's focus on consistency and commitment, as he saw value in being productive every single day, even if the quality of his work wasn't always perfect. For him, the act of working daily was about the broader principle of striving toward constant progress, no matter how small the daily accomplishments might have seemed.

Ultimately, this quote reflects Hall's philosophy that true success in his field was built upon discipline and daily effort. The idea that working every day—even on holidays—was central to his sense of achievement shows his deep dedication to his craft, highlighting how personal values and commitment can shape one's professional life.