Deep Work

What is Deep Work?

Professional activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration

• Push your cognitive capabilities to the limit
• Create new value that is hard to replicate
• Skills that are becoming increasingly rare

The Problem

Knowledge work is being systematically redefined

• Open offices, Slack, constant notifications
• Shallow tasks crowd out deep work
• The ability to focus is a competitive advantage

The Rules

Focus without distraction is the key to producing value

1. Work deeply — schedule blocks of uninterrupted time
2. Embrace boredom — don't reach for your phone
3. Quit social media — or limit it strictly
4. Drain the shallows — ruthlessly eliminate trivial tasks

Eliminate Distractions

Before each deep work session

• Turn off all notifications
• Block distracting websites
• Close email and messaging apps
• Let people know you'll be unavailable

Time Blocking

Protect your deep work blocks like meetings

• Morning is usually best — willpower depletes through the day
• Start with 60–90 minute blocks
• Same time every day builds the habit
• Protect the block from rescheduling

The Goal

Master the skill of concentration

Deep work won't find you. You have to create the conditions for it.