Deep Questions with Cal Newport

Ep. 125: What is Discipline (and How Do I Get It?)

Aug 30, 2021

Explore the essence of self-discipline as a vital tool for personal and professional growth. Learn practical strategies to maintain focus in the chaos of parenting and team communication. Discover how structured time management can enhance productivity and well-being. Uncover the importance of aligning your career with personal values for a fulfilling life. Plus, get tips on using editing tools for better writing and personalized coaching for fitness goals.

49:43

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Highlights

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Episode notes

Cultivating Discipline Through a Compelling Vision

01:19

Intro

2min

Navigating Productivity in a Noisy World

20min

Managing Team Communication and Deep Work

4min

Structured Task Management and Writing Improvement Tools

2min

Enhancing Writing and Fitness Through Personalized Coaching

3min

Cultivating Personal Discipline

18min

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.

DEEP DIVE: How Reachable Should We Be? [1:48]

DEEP WORK QUESTIONS

- What should I do if I finish a time block early? [8:31]
- How do I work deeply at home with a crying newborn? [12:57]
- How I work deeply while taking care of a child full time? [17:54]
- How do I manage a shared mailbox with my team? [23:14]

DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS

- What is discipline (and how do I get it)? [31:49]
- Should I take a harder job to get better faster? [39:35]
- What about people who don't want to do deep work? [43:21]

Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music and Mark Miles for mastering.