Life gets better when you do the deep work!
Do you feel like you’re always doing something, but never actually getting anything done? You’re half-listening to a podcast, folding laundry, and mentally planning dinner—all at once. When you sit down to ‘relax,’ you just end up scrolling through texts, to-dos, and Target deals. This is called the “anxious middle.” Always kind of working. Always kind of resting. Never fully doing either. But life gets so much better when you stop lingering in the middle and get intentional with your time and energy.
Tiffany Peterson says that’s what deep work is all about.
What is Deep Work?
The idea of deep work comes from a book by Author Cal Newport, titled Deep Work. Newport’s book is a fantastic read if you’re looking to understand the science and strategies behind achieving focused, productive work.
Tiffany explained that deep work is simply more intentional work that is distraction-free and allows you to focus. She said, “Deep work is just simply more intentional work. That’s more distraction-free and you’re able to focus.” We all know that feeling when we’re really focused on a project, whether it’s laundry, organization, or work. When we’re in that fixated lane, we get so much more done because we are so concentrated. Tiffany noted, “It feels so much better because you’re actually seeing things get done.”
The Problem with Multitasking
Most of us try to multitask and do multiple things at once, but this often leads to regular distractions and only partial progress. Tiffany mentioned, “There’s so many studies that multitasking is actually one of the worst things we can be doing for our brain to actually see progress.” She emphasized that while it’s fine to scroll your phone for fun at the end of the day, if you have deadlines or goals, you need deep work pockets to achieve them.
Technology and Distractions
In today’s technology-driven world, distractions are everywhere. Tiffany compared our generation to our grandparents, who had fewer distractions. She said, “The average adult currently picks up their phone 125 to 150 times a day. Imagine your grandfather coming in 10 times a day to check the mailbox. Would you expect him to get much done?” This analogy highlights how constant connectivity can hinder productivity.
Benefits of Deep Work
Deep work helps you achieve peace of mind and progress in your home, business, health, or projects. Tiffany stated, “We’re all hungry for progression. We’re all wired that way– like we want to progress. You’re going to need some focus time to help you move forward with any project or task or things that you’re working on.”
How to Achieve Deep Work
Eliminate and Manage Distractions
One of the first steps to achieving deep work is to eliminate and manage distractions. Tiffany advised turning off notifications from social media apps and setting boundaries with technology. She said, “You don’t need to know every time someone’s liked your photo or whatnot. Even if you’re using your technology for growing a business, you still can have boundaries on it.”
Have a Clear Vision
Having a clear vision of what you want and what you’re working towards is crucial. Tiffany explained, “Without vision, we simply repeat the past or respond to the brightest, shiniest object, the loudest noise, the biggest thing.” A clear vision helps you decide what to say yes to and what to say no to.
Schedule Time for Deep Work
Success is scheduled. Tiffany emphasized the importance of blocking off time in your calendar for deep work. She said, “Whether that’s your self-care time, meal prep, or planning time, block off the time in your calendar where you know like, ‘Hey, this is when I do this and this is when this is happening.'”
Create an Inspiring Environment
Creating an environment that inspires you can make deep work more enjoyable. Tiffany suggested lighting a candle, diffusing essential oils, or listening to good music while working. She said, “I’m a big fan of creating an environment that inspires you. It makes it a little more joyful and enjoyable.”
Find more advice from Tiffany on Instagram, @tiffpeterson, or at tiffanyspeaks.com.
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