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Ep. 321: Escaping Your Phone
Deep Questions with Cal Newport
Maximizing Focus through Effective Breaks and Interval Training
It takes a significant amount of time, approximately 20 minutes, to regain focus after a distraction, according to cognitive research. The Pomodoro technique, which involves working for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break, can be effective if the breaks do not introduce unrelated distractions that could trigger significant context switches. Engaging in 'deep breaks,' such as walking or stretching without exposing the brain to highly salient distractions, enhances concentration for subsequent work sessions. To optimize focus, one can start with 25-minute intervals and gradually increase the duration of focused work as comfort increases, aiming for periods of focused work closer to 90 minutes. This approach, termed 'interval training' for concentration, allows for better mental stamina and productivity.
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