Do you really know? Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
Oct 13, 2025
Explore the overwhelming distractions of modern workplaces, from relentless notifications to constant interruptions. Discover the concept of deep work, introduced by Cal Newport, as a solution for enhancing focus and productivity. Learn practical strategies, like dedicating 60–90 minute blocks for uninterrupted tasks and silencing distractions. Navigate potential concerns from colleagues about perceived rudeness by communicating your deep work intentions. Boost your concentration in a distracted world!
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Deep Work Versus Shallow Work
- Deep work is distraction-free concentration that pushes your cognitive limits.
- Shallow work like emails and coordination occupies most of our time and reduces impact.
Shallow Work Dominates Time
- Asana research shows shallow work consumes roughly 60% of our time.
- Reducing shallow tasks creates room for higher-impact deep work even if you can't eliminate them fully.
Bill Gates' Think Week Example
- Bill Gates retreats to a cabin twice a year for uninterrupted 'Think Weeks.'
- He isolates from emails, calls and the internet to focus on big-picture thinking.
