Deep Work Practice

The Practice of Sustained Attention

Deep work—extended periods of distraction-free focus on cognitively demanding tasks—is both increasingly rare and increasingly valuable. It's also a trainable skill.

Starting Small

If you're used to fragmented attention, long focus periods feel uncomfortable at first. Build gradually:

Week 1: 25-minute focus blocks with 5-minute breaks (Pomodoro technique) Week 2: 35-minute blocks Week 3: 50-minute blocks Week 4: 90-minute blocks (the natural ultradian rhythm)

Ritual and Routine

Consistent rituals signal to your brain that focus is expected:

• Same time, same place for deep work
• Pre-work ritual (close tabs, set intention)
• Clear session boundaries (start and end times)
• Post-work ritual (review what was accomplished)

Distraction Handling

When distractions arise during deep work:

1. Notice without judgment
2. Capture the thought if it needs attention later
3. Return to the task
4. Don't follow the distraction "just for a moment"