Let's discuss a superpower that can set you apart in our increasingly distraction-filled world: Deep Work. It's a concept coined by computer science professor and productivity guru, Cal Newport.
Deep work refers to the ability to concentrate on a single (often demanding) task without distraction. It’s an old-fashioned idea, and runs counter to our embrace of juggling the endless tasks and interruptions (many of them digital) that often seem more urgent or more interesting than what we are doing.
Perhaps it stems from our desperate need to be connected 24/7 – our fear of missing out (FOMO). I, on the other hand, have adopted JOMO (the joy of missing out), and find that I get more done (and do higher-quality work) when I’m not trying to keep so many balls in the air.
Which brings me back to ‘deep work.’ Newport sums it up quite nicely in his maxim: "Do Less. Do Better. Know Why." It's an elegant distillation of a powerful idea, and one that now resonates strongly with my personal work ethic.
Sadly, the ability to perform deep work is becoming a rare commodity, precisely when it’s needed, making the few who can master it even more valuable.
Let’s start with “doing less,” which may sound scary to employers. In my own work life, "doing less" has meant that I now focus on fewer tasks. It was a difficult transition at first, given our propensity to glorify being busy. But, once I began concentrating on select tasks, I noticed a surge in my productivity and a decline in stress levels.
Besides, ‘multitasking’ is a fallacy. Studies have shown that constantly switching gears between tasks (like an email or Tik Tok cat video) requires about 15 minutes to re-orient to your original, primary task.
Newport’s “Do Better” tenet is likely to generate more enthusiasm among bosses. For me, once I'd slimmed down my task list, I could afford to invest more time and mental energy into each task. The result? Not only higher-quality work, but a greater sense of accomplishment than when I was constantly surfing between so many open loops.
As for "knowing why," this was a game-changer. Rather than checking items off a to-do list, I’m now taking positive steps towards a larger goal – making all the difference in how I approach my work.
Bottom line: it's about focusing on what's important, doing it well, and understanding the purpose behind it. I’m thankful to have stumbled upon Deep Work, however late in my career. Perhaps I’m a slow learner – or a late bloomer (glass is half empty/half full). Either way, I like to think I haven’t peaked yet.
Go “deep” or go home!
Neil Moore is a communications specialist, freelance journalist, masters athlete, and family man who believes that excellence has no expiry date.
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