Hello All,
It been a long time when I wrote my thoughts and learnings. I had a break but during this period I have read few books like “The Courage to be dislike”, The Alchemist, few book by my favourite Late Shri A.P.J Abdul Kalam. Currently I am reading ‘Deep Work’ by Cal Newport. So far I love this book and impressed with the author. He wanted to stress on importance of Deep work, work without distraction. These days people works with lots of distractions which impact the individual productivity. So here’s are some key points which I have extracted from the book, please try to go in the deep meaning of each points and l am sure this will help you for sure.
Definition of Deep Works: Lets start with the definition as per author deep work is ability for focus on work without any distraction on particular task. It help you produce high-quality work, improve productivity, mastering you respective task. In nutshell, cultivate the ability for deep concentration to produce splendid results.
- Deep work is the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task.
- Shallow work is non-cognitively demanding, logistical-style work, often performed while distracted.
- Deep work is like a superpower for twenty first century.
Shallow Work vs. Deep Work:
Lets understand what is shallow work as per author, shallow work (non-cognitively demanding tasks often performed while distracted) with deep work. He argues that deep work is rare and valuable, while shallow work is more common but less meaningful.
Four Disciplines of Execution:author introduces four disciplines to help integrate deep work into your routine:
- Focus on the Wildly Important: Identify the most crucial tasks and prfioritize them.
- Act on the Lead Measures: Focus on the activities that have the most significant impact.
- Keep a Compelling Scoreboard: Use metrics to track your progress.
- Create a Cadence of Accountability: Regularly review and adjust your strategies.
Few key points:
Embrace Boredom: Author argues that embracing boredom is essential for deep work. By resisting the urge to constantly seek novel stimuli, you can strengthen your ability to concentrate.
Quit Social Media: Newport suggests that many social media tools are designed to be addictive and can detract from deep work. He recommends quitting or significantly reducing your use of social media to reclaim focus.
Rituals and Routines: Establishing rituals and routines helps create a structured environment for deep work. Knowing when and where you will work on specific tasks can make it easier to enter a state of deep focus.
The Grand Gesture: Newport discusses the concept of the grand gesture, where individuals make significant changes to their environment or work habits to facilitate deep work. This might include taking a digital sabbatical or going on a retreat.
Deep Work and Meaningful Work:The book emphasizes the connection between deep work and a sense of meaning and fulfillment in one’s work. By focusing on high-value tasks, individuals can create more meaningful and impactful contributions.”Deep Work” encourages readers to rethink their approach to work, advocating for a deliberate and mindful practice of deep, concentrated effort as a means to achieve success in a distracted world.
This is just a glimpse of the book. I will come up with more points and I have to except that at least I am not able to follow the Deep work so far but will try to improve it for sure.
