How I Work BEST OF: Cal Newport on why you need to change your workflow, not your habits, when it comes to boosting productivity
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Jan 13, 2021 
Cal Newport, a computer science professor and author of "Digital Minimalism," shares insights on productivity. He emphasizes the need to change workflows rather than habits for better efficiency. Newport discusses tailored rituals for deep work, debunks the myth of constant phone accessibility, and highlights the importance of solitude. He also outlines strategies to combat shallow work, manage emails effectively, and engage in 'deep breaks' for enhanced focus. His thoughts challenge conventional productivity metrics, advocating for meaningful engagement over mere busyness.
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Rituals for Deep Work
- Create different deep work rituals for different types of work.
- Tailor rituals to match the specific cognitive demands of each task.
Cal Newport's Deep Work Rituals
- Cal Newport uses a custom-built library table for writing.
- For theoretical computer science proofs, he walks around his town.
Deep Work vs. Flow State
- Deep work includes both flow state and deliberate practice.
- Deliberate practice, unlike flow, can be unpleasant but fulfilling.
