Ep. 245: “Crazy” Productivity
Deep Questions with Cal Newport
Productivity Mindset and Long-term Production Goals
Having a slow productivity mindset allows for focusing on production on a larger scale. It means being responsible in the short term while also recognizing that the key to long-term success is not working excessively. Instead, the focus shifts to producing something meaningful over the next few years, even if it takes slightly longer. The impact of slowing down in the near term is insignificant when reflecting on the accomplishments years later. The example of Newton's work on Principia Mathematica demonstrates that the time taken to produce exceptional work is often overlooked. Embracing slow productivity acknowledges the necessity to slow down when having other priorities, such as raising kids. Giving oneself permission to slow down and accepting that busy periods may happen unintentionally are important aspects of a slow productivity mindset.
