To make a big life decision, reflect on the different elements of the deep life and integrate them into your life through keystone habits.
Overcoming phone addiction involves addressing the underlying void by reflecting on values, creating an aspirational vision, and aligning technology with that vision.
To effectively manage multiple projects, implement a structured system, prioritize high-quality work, create time blocks, and focus on organization and intention in each project.
Deep dives
Making a Big Life Decision
To make a big life decision when there are many choices available, take the different elements of the deep life and spend time reflecting on each one to gain self-knowledge. Build keystone habits for each element to integrate them into your life. Figure out the mix of these elements you want in your deep life and what you want to prioritize. Then, consider different configurations of your life that align with your desired mix of elements. Finally, execute your plan step by step, knowing that some changes may be immediate while others require cultivation or accomplishment.
Dealing with Phone Addiction
To overcome phone addiction, focus on filling the existential void that the phone is currently fulfilling. Reflect on your values and what matters to you outside of work. Build an aspirational image of what you want your life to be and identify the ways technology can support this vision. Use technology intentionally and remove any apps or features that do not align with your values. By addressing the underlying void and aligning technology with your vision, you can break free from phone addiction.
Managing Multiple Projects
To manage multiple projects effectively, implement a structured system that clearly outlines the steps and status of each project. Reduce your hours or delegate tasks to prioritize high-quality work. Create time blocks for administrative work and breaks, and hire an assistant if necessary. Focus on organization and intention in each project, making sure to support each element of your deep life. By being structured and intentional, you can balance multiple projects without feeling overwhelmed.
Finding the Right Work-Life Balance
For a healthy work-life balance, distinguish between work hours and non-work hours. Focus on accomplishing meaningful work during work hours and avoiding shallow work. Reduce work hours if possible and dedicate time for family and high-quality leisure during non-work hours. Prioritize activities that align with your values and contribute to a sense of depth in life. Incorporate intentional breaks and create rhythms of hard and easy days. By being flexible and intentional, you can achieve a fulfilling work-life balance.
Navigating Choices and Making Decisions
When faced with many choices, take time to reflect on your personal values and long-term goals. Implement keystone habits for each element of the deep life to gain self-knowledge and understand what is most important to you. Experiment with different configurations of your life to see what aligns best with your values. Consider making non-trivial changes to integrate different elements and align your life with your values. By systematically exploring and aligning with your vision, you can make informed decisions and create a fulfilling life.
Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.
ANNOUNCEMENT: I'm hiring! [0:20]
DEEP DIVE: The Elements of the Deep Life [3:51]
DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How should I get started in a new remote work job? [16:56] - How I time block a purely reactive job? [21:56] - Should I bother capturing tasks that are fast to complete? [25:26] - How do I tame multiple concurrent projects? [29:00] - How do I schedule optional deep work in an exhausting job? [31:58]
DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How much time is left for family after goals and deep work? [38:32] - Is there such a thing as deep fun? [41:20] - I am addicted to my phone. What do I do? [43:24] - How do I make a big life decision when I have lots of options? [49:11]
Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music and Mark Miles for mastering.
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