I was cursing myself for discovering his book at the end of my undergrad.

Cal Newport, who is currently an assistant professor at Georgetown University, wrote the guide on how to be a straight A student.

It was amazing to read a method that didn’t require you to wake up at dawn, shut yourself in a room and study until sundown. The book was practical and it worked.

When I had an opportunity to do my masters, I dedicated myself to Cal’s advice. I managed to finish my work early, without stress, while traveling back and forth between two cities and running my magic business on the weekends.

The Era of Constant Interruptions

He just released a new book on the idea of “Deep Focus” (a term he coined). It’s actually not anything new, but a resurfacing of a skill much needed today. The first thing I wanted to do when finishing this book was read it again.

Not to be a Luddite, but with the proliferation of technology in the workplace, we’ve come at the mercy of constant interruptions. We expect instant responses and constant use of new programs, or “apps,” to aid us in the every day.

Our brains crave the next interruption.

“We no longer see Internet tools as as products released by for-profit companies, funded by investors hoping to make a return, and run by twentysomethings who are often making things up as they go along.” (Newport)

We’ve become so accustomed to interruptions, it’s no wonder people are seeking the deep meditation that will quiet our brain. I suspect that is the reason adult colouring books were the number one selling book over the Christmas holidays.

Deep Focus as a Skill

This book was a reminder… maybe even a plea?… to rid ourselves of a shallow existence and move towards the deep. This is difficult if your brain is already being re-wired for today’s technological landscape.

However, there’s a guide in there to point us in the right direction. Not a system to replicate, but suggestions to follow. I finished this book satisfied with the message and ready to get to work.

I find myself struggling to rid the temptation of giving into the world of interruptions. However, the sessions I’ve had with moving back into the deep have given my brain this longing for peace it’s been missing.

It’s time to do work that matters.

Note: I am in no way affiliated with Newport – I just really like his work.