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To balance deep work with shallow work, consider scheduling deep work every morning until lunchtime, followed by an hour of core shallow work. On weeks with larger shallow projects, allocate time in the afternoons for that work. Reducing the number of projects on your plate can make this schedule possible.
To balance system optimization and productivity with making genuine human connections, create a schedule that allows for breathing room and proactively allocate time for social interactions. Avoid mixing work and socializing and ensure you have clear boundaries between work and personal time.
It's important to find a smart balance between being organized and productive without overwhelming yourself. While organization and productivity skills are valuable, use them intentionally and avoid filling every minute of your day with work. Prioritize deep work, schedule breaks for social activities, and be intentional about how you want your day to be.
Start deep work faster by implementing rituals and consistent locations for focused work. By establishing trust in the signals that indicate a shift to deep work, individuals can reduce the lead-up time and prevent deep work from disrupting their schedule. Additionally, allowing more breathing room in one's schedule and separating productivity from accomplishment can lead to a more sustainable and fulfilled work life.
A focus on productivity alone is not enough to sustain motivation and a sense of accomplishment. While organizational tactics are important, they are not sufficient in themselves to foster fulfillment and excitement about work. To maintain productivity and motivation, individuals should focus on the craft of their work, ensuring alignment with their long-term goals and values. Additionally, developing other areas of life, such as health, community, and contemplation, can provide support and fulfillment during challenging work periods.
Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo
Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia
Today’s Deep Question: Does Cal Still Think That Productivity is Overrated? [6:46]
- Should I abandon my careful plan when I get on a roll? [30:47]
- How do I achieve slow-and-steady work mode? [35:38]
- How do I make my the most out of idle time? [41:37]
- How does a deep work lover survive the shallows? [47:34]
- Does productivity require that you’re anti-social? [51:16]
Something Interesting: Rethinking productivity in academia [1:02:44]
Links:
calnewport.com/blog/2007/08/31/dangerous-ideas-productivity-is-overrated/
Thanks to our Sponsors:
Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at stamps.com/deep. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show!
hensonshaving.com/cal
blinkist.com/deep
80000hours.org/deep
Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, and Mark Miles for mastering.
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