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In a world of constant digital distractions, the ability to deeply focus on a task has become quite rare. Aren’t you tired of devices interrupting and ruining your concentration? Then let us introduce the benefits of Deep Work and enhance productivity today.
At Lexington, as experts in flexible workspaces, we value how important it is to be focused on work. Let’s explain what deep work actually is and how we can start applying it!
What is Deep Work?
According to Cal Newport, the creator of this concept, deep work approach that involves attaining maximum concentration to complete a task from start to finish. In this way, the cognitive abilities of the individual engaged in deep work are at their peak.
Deepening in a task, as opposed to the usual shallowness to which we often accustom ourselves: mindlessly responding to emails, skimming through readings, and succumbing to any distraction.
In other works, deep work consists of working smarter and more efficiently. It allows you to fully focus on tasks that are most important and provide the highest value to your work.
Benefits of Deep Work on Performance and Concentration
Would you like to know the benefits of incorporating deep work into your work day? Then take some notes!
Enhanced productivity and work quality
The main advantage of deep work is significantly improving your work productivity. By avoiding distractions and maximizing focus on a task, you can complete it more quickly and efficiently. Moreover, it allows you to improve the quality of your work.
Development of cognitive and creative skills
Deep work can help you develop cognitive and creative skills. By forcing yourself to concentrate, you train your brain and strengthen your capacity to have critical thinking and solve complex problems. The state of flow that arises can foster creativity and generate new ideas.
Four basic rules of Deep Work
Cal Newport outlines four rules for practicing deep work. While the implementation may vary, they serve as a useful guide for those interested in integrating this approach into their work routine.
Deep work sessions
This means scheduling uninterrupted blocks of time where you can fully dedicate yourself to a task. During these periods, all distractions, especially digital ones, must be eliminated.
Prioritize
Not all tasks require the same level of concentration. To work effectively, identify which tasks require deep work and which one can be done with a lower level of concentration (shallow work). This way, you can plan your time, avoiding exhaustion and wasting deep work periods on tasks that don’t require it.
Plan your week
At the beginning of each week, plan your full focus sessions, considering your other responsibilities and obligations. It can also be helpful to pre-plan what you’ll do during each session.
Work smarter, not harder
Minimize the time dedicated to shallow work tasks and avoid distractions that interrupt your deep focus work. For example, you can set up automated email responses, limit time spent on social media, or even establish “Internet blocks” to resist the temptation of web browsing.
An effective way to optimize this rule is by relocating your work to an environment conducive to concentration, such as Lexington’s workspaces.
Tools and Techniques to Enhance Deep Work
Adopting deep work into your work routine not only requires personal commitment but also utilizing tools that can assist you. Don’t miss these helpful recommendations!
Focus and Time Management Techniques
There are various focus and time management techniques that you can apply to enter a state of deep focused work. For instance, the Pomodoro Technique involves working in blocks of time (normally 25 minutes), followed by short breaks (5 minutes). This can help you keep focused and prevent mental fatigue.
You could also consider using time-blocking, which involves planning your day in blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks.
Apps and Software that support Deep WorkFinal del formulario
In this blog we have already discussed applications for better work management. However, now we will focus on those that can help you eliminate distractions and facilitate deep work.
· Website blocking applications. These allow you to temporarily block certain websites or distracting applications. Some examples are “Freedom” and “StayFocusd”.
· Time management applications. Applications like “RescueTime” can be very useful for managing your time and, above all, analyzing how it is spent. Among other things, this application breaks down the websites and applications you have used and for how many minutes.
· Productivity. Other tools such as “Toggl” or “Clockify”, allow you to track the time you spend on different tasks. This way, you can identify opportunities for deep work.
There is no doubt deep work enhances your productivity and enables you to optimize the time dedicated to work, giving your best in distraction-free time blocks. Are you ready to put it to the test in our business centers? If you practice it regularly, you will improve the quality of your work. At Lexington, we create spaces that enhance concentration and focus, making the implementation of deep work easier.