"Navigating the Shallows : Managing Logistical Tasks for Focused Success"

 Shallow work is a term coined by Cal Newport in his book "Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World." It refers to non-cognitively demanding, logistical-style tasks, often performed while distracted. These tasks are easy to replicate and only create a little new value. Examples of shallow work include:

Email and messaging:

 Constant checking and responding to emails and messages can be a significant source of shallow work.

Social Media:

Scrolling through social media feeds, liking and commenting on posts, etc.

Meetings: 

Many meetings, particularly poorly planned or poorly run, can devolve into shallow work.

Task switching: 

Constantly switching between tasks can lead to shallow work, as the brain must reorient itself each time, wasting time and energy.

Administrative tasks: 

Filling out forms, scheduling appointments, and other administrative tasks can also be considered shallow work.

Shallow work is not inherently wrong; some are necessary for daily life. However, it can prevent us from engaging in deeper, more meaningful work that creates more value when it becomes excessive. On the other hand, deep work is defined as tasks that require intense focus and concentration, such as writing a novel or coding new software.

To replicate shallow work with deep work, you can break the process down into the following sections:

Scheduling:

 Set aside specific times during the day when you will work on deep tasks and not allow distractions or interruptions.

Eliminating Distractions:

 Turn off notifications on your phone and close any unnecessary tabs or apps on your computer to minimize distractions.

The Pomodoro Technique: 

Break your work into 25-minute intervals, called "pomodoros," with short breaks in between. During the Pomodoro, you focus on a deep task; during the holidays, you can do shallow tasks such as checking email.

Mindfulness:

 Practice Mindfulness and awareness, being aware of your thoughts and emotions, and being able to focus on the task at hand rather than getting distracted by external or internal distractions.

In terms of specific techniques to implement these sections, some possible methods include:

For Scheduling:

 use calendar-blocking, time-blocking, or time-tracking apps

For Eliminating Distractions:

Use apps like freedom, cold turkey, or focus@will for The Pomodoro Technique: use apps like focus to-do, forest, or tomato timer

For Mindfulness: use apps like Headspace, Calm, guided meditation, and mindfulness practices like yoga, tai chi, or qigong.