Internal distractions and resistance are major obstacles to achieving focus in deep work sessions.
Tasks with ambiguity, like writing an essay, make it difficult to maintain focus.
Deep dives
Internal distractions as key culprits
When studying focus and distractions, it was initially assumed that external interruptions were the main challenge. However, working with thousands of students revealed that internal distractions and resistance were more common culprits. People would procrastinate and initiate distractions, even when unnecessary. The fear of interruptions would hinder deep work sessions. Understanding these internal distractions is crucial to achieving a focused life.
Ambiguity and its impact on focus
Focus is difficult in tasks where the next steps are unclear, as ambiguity kills focus. Writing an essay is a prime example of an ambiguous task, with choices of topics, beginnings, and ideas. In contrast, routine tasks from a to-do list are more straightforward. Deep, demanding work in professional life often involves ambiguity. Recognizing this pattern helps to overcome challenges to focus and productivity.