Self-improvement Nerd's Key Ideas from Deep Work
by Cal Newport

• Definition: Having a set time and place for deep work makes it a habit.
• Example: “Every morning at 6 AM, I lock myself in my room and spend one hour on assignments with my phone off. It’s now a routine.”
• Application: Choose a time each day that’s just for deep work. It could be the first hour after school or right before bed. Stick to this time daily, and soon your brain will automatically tune in to “focus mode.”

• Definition: Social media is a distraction that stops us from focusing deeply.
• Example: “I removed Instagram and only allow myself 10 minutes a day for it after I’m done with my important tasks.”
• Application: Set time limits on your social apps, like 10 or 20 minutes max per day. Use that time after you finish your deep work as a reward. Suddenly, scrolling feels like a prize instead of a time-waster.

• Definition: Boredom is a chance to let your brain recharge. If you fill every moment with something, you never fully reset.
• Example: “When I feel bored, I don’t immediately grab my phone. I let myself sit with it and think of something new.”
• Application: Next time you’re bored in line or waiting, don’t pull out your phone. Instead, let your mind wander. Over time, this builds up your focus muscle, making it easier to focus when it really counts.

• Definition: Blocking time on your calendar just for deep work makes it official.
• Example: “I put ‘Homework Power Hour’ on my calendar every evening after dinner. When that time comes, I sit down and go all-in.”
• Application: Block out 1–2 hours on your calendar each day and label it “Deep Work.” During this time, work on the hardest, most important tasks without distractions. It trains your brain to take these sessions seriously.

• Definition: A shutdown ritual signals to your brain that work is done, letting you fully relax.
• Example: “After studying, I close my books, make a list for tomorrow, and put my desk away. This signals I’m done and free to chill.”
• Application: Pick a short “end-of-day” habit—writing tomorrow’s to-dos, cleaning up your desk, or closing your laptop. Doing this daily makes it clear when work is over and makes relaxation more satisfying.

Problem: You're buried under schoolwork and trying to balance friends, but you’re constantly distracted, and it’s stressing you out. You end up with unfinished work and still feel behind.

1. Cut Shallow Work: Identify two “time suckers”—maybe it’s replying instantly to every message or getting lost in your feed. Dedicate that time to important tasks.
2. Set a Routine: Set up a dedicated study hour, maybe from 6 PM to 7 PM, where you’re totally off your phone. Inform friends about this, so they know you’re unavailable.
3. Limit Social Media: Allow yourself a quick scroll after you finish the hour, using social media as a reward, not a distraction.

4. Embrace Boredom: When tempted to quit early, sit with the feeling. Let your mind wander, then return to the task.

5. Deep Work Block: Block out a specific time for deep work on your phone calendar or notes app—commit to it like a hangout with friends.

6. Shutdown Ritual: End your day by writing a quick “done” list, cleaning up your study space, and giving yourself a moment of rest before messaging friends.

After just a week, you’ll notice you’re more focused, finishing your schoolwork faster, and can relax with friends without the guilt of unfinished tasks.