Rule #2: Embrace Boredom
The key purpose of this rule is to heighten your limit for deep work by training to 1. Improve your ability to concentrate 2. Overcome your addiction to distraction
Don't Take Breaks From Distraction. Instead Take Breaks From FOCUS
- Set aside blocks of time to use the internet & refrain from it. Abide by the schedule to train your mental muscles.
- Avoid switching from low-stimuli and high-value to high-stimuli and low-value work at the slightest hint of boredom.
Work Like Teddy Roosevelt
Roosevelt was a man of many interests, yet he managed to do well in Harvard & publish a book after his freshman year ended. He used his time extremely efficiently by working with great intensity. To train to work intensely, set a hard deadline for yourself by drastically reducing the time you'd normally set aside for a task. You should consistently be able to beat the buzzer.
References
- Newport, Cal. Deep Work. New York, Hachette Book Group Inc, 2016.