Deep Work: Principles for Focused Work

What is Deep Work?

Professional activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push your cognitive capabilities to their limit.

Deep Work Strategies

1. Monastic Philosophy

Remove yourself completely from surface activities. Only possible for those with rare and valuable skills.

2. Bimodal Philosophy

Divide your time between deep work blocks and everything else. Requires at least one day a week.

3. Rhythmic Philosophy

Create a routine with scheduled deep work blocks. Best for those with regular schedules.

4. Journalistic Philosophy

Fit deep work wherever you can in your schedule. Requires significant discipline and experience.

Deep Work Routine

1. Choose a location for deep work
2. Set a specific end time
3. Remove all distractions
4. Track your progress
5. Plan in advance what to work on

Shallow Work Definition

Noncognitively demanding, logistical-style tasks, often performed while distracted. These efforts tend not to create much new value in the world and are easy to replicate.