Deep Work, ReWork, & Discipline

My thoughts on some pivotal books on work... plus discipline.

  By  

Ken Morico

  on  5/13/2024

Finished Reading Deep Work by Cal Newport... some reflections...

The Deep Work Benefit

Tasks can take up to 5 times longer with interruptions vs. deep work time.

It's something I've always known but is crystal clear now working at home with others around. Is coworking the answer??

The Deep Work Space

After optimizing everything, a deep work space like WeWork might be the way. Like writers, work from home professionals need a separate place to work to finish big projects. A sort of "cabin in the woods." I think the modern equivalent might be focus rooms at coworking spaces.

Spiritual leaders throughout history experienced revelations on mountain tops. Is it proximity to heaven or the still atmosphere that open their minds to extraordinary experiences? Or something totally different? Go to the mountain top and find YOUR answer. I have mine.

Deep Work Book Notes

Here are five actionable items from your notes on "Deep Work" by Cal Newport:

1. Create a Dedicated Workspace: Just like Jung's private office or Bill Gates' "Think Weeks," establish a space where you can work without distractions. This could be a separate room or a specific area in your home or office where you can focus deeply.

2. Schedule Deep Work Sessions: Allocate specific blocks of time for deep work. During these periods, eliminate all distractions and focus solely on cognitively demanding tasks. Consistency is key, so try to make this a regular part of your routine.

3. Limit Shallow Work: Identify and minimize shallow work—tasks that are non-cognitively demanding and often performed while distracted. Batch these tasks into smaller time slots to free up more time for deep work.

4. Embrace Digital Minimalism: Reduce your reliance on digital distractions. This might involve setting specific times for checking emails and social media, or even taking regular breaks from technology to improve your concentration and contemplation abilities.

5. Focus on High-Quality Output: Strive to produce the best work you are capable of. In a competitive and digital economy, high-quality work stands out and is more likely to be rewarded. This requires depth and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Reading Recommendation: Deep Work by Cal Newport

Working Different for Productivity... or ReWork

Listening to the audiobook version of ReWork (Jason Fried, David Heinemeier Hansson).

A huge takeaway for me: Develop tech products that do less / simple things better than the larger competitors. Leave harder stuff for them.

A philosophy for #tech, #indiedev SaaS, & maybe... life.

Do what you can to make an impact as an individual.

ReWork Book Notes

1. Start Small and Stay Lean: Focus on building a small, profitable business rather than aiming to be a large corporation from the start. This approach allows you to be more agile and responsive to changes and customer needs.

2. Make Quick Decisions: Avoid overthinking and lengthy planning. Make decisions quickly and iterate as you go. This helps maintain momentum and allows for faster adjustments based on real-world feedback.

3. Prioritize Execution Over Perfection: Don’t wait for everything to be perfect before launching. Get your product or service out there and improve it based on user feedback. Perfection can be the enemy of progress.

4. Embrace Simplicity: Simplify your processes and focus on what truly matters. Avoid unnecessary meetings, detailed business plans, and complex systems. Keep things straightforward to enhance productivity and clarity.

5. Focus on Your Core Product: Invest your time and resources in improving your core product or service rather than diversifying too early. Ensure that what you offer is the best it can be before expanding into new areas.

Reading Recommendation: ReWork (Jason Fried, David Heinemeier Hansson)

Discipline for Productivity... Military Style

DISCIPLINE - I’ve been listening to @jockowillink and I'm enjoying the ex-military perspective... the concept that even minor tasks in your life can be thought of as missions.

Interesting mindset.

I’m going to give it a try.

Get on your warpath!

Discipline Equal Freedom Book Notes

1. Cultivate Self-Discipline: Understand that true discipline comes from within. External sources can inspire you, but lasting discipline must be self-imposed. Start by making small, consistent decisions that align with your goals.

2. Establish a Morning Routine: Get up early and start your day with purpose. This sets a positive tone and gives you a head start on your tasks. Consistent early rising can help you become the person you aspire to be.

3. Embrace and Utilize Stress: Instead of fighting stress, use it to your advantage. View stressful situations as opportunities to become sharper, more alert, and more effective. This mindset can transform stress into a tool for personal growth.

4. Daily Self-Reflection: Regularly question yourself about your progress and goals. Ask tough questions like "What have I learned?" and "What am I doing to improve myself today?" Honest self-assessment can drive continuous improvement.

5. Make Conscious Choices: Success is a series of deliberate choices. Decide to work hard, take on challenges, and lead when others won't. Choose your influences wisely and focus on becoming the best version of yourself, regardless of past experiences¹².

Reading Recommendation: Discipline Equals Freedom by Jocko Willink