Deep Questions with Cal Newport Ep. 77: Does Email Have a Mind of Its Own?
Mar 8, 2021
Is email secretly controlling your work life? Dive into the hyperactive hive mind and its impact on productivity. Discover tips for better communication at work, including how to say no more often. Explore the joys of regular creative work and the balance of planning your time. Plus, a fresh perspective on whether reading fiction is truly a waste. Can you really avoid becoming smartphone-dependent? Tune in for insights on digital minimalism and rethinking what career passion means for true satisfaction.
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Email's Unintentional Impact
- Email's widespread adoption led to the hyperactive hive mind workflow, increasing communication frequency.
- This workflow emerged unintentionally, driven by the tool itself, not a conscious decision.
PhD Research Approach
- Focus on writing well-crafted research papers quickly, even if they seem minor, to hone your skills.
- Build a foundation of publications, then explore bigger ideas as your expertise grows.
Learning Technical Skills
- Learning a vast computer science curriculum in 4-6 months is unrealistic, so prioritize one area.
- Establish a rhythm of continuous learning, starting with algorithm basics, and use deliberate practice.
