Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

About the book: Deep Work is all about how the rise of technology has wrecked our ability to concentrate deeply on tasks – and how to overcome this blockade. This book illustrates different strategies that can help you improve the output of your work and get the most out of your free time.

About the author: Cal Newport is an assistant professor of computer science at Georgetown University specializing in the theory of distributed algorithms. Several publications, including Inc. Magazine, The Globe and Mail and 800-CEO-Read, have featured his most recent book, So Good They Can't Ignore You, on their lists for the best business book of the year.

My highlights:
Multitasking and distraction are the enemies of productivity. multitasking does not equal productivity
Completing small tasks and moving information around makes us feel busy and accomplished – but it's actually just preventing us from truly focusing.
There are different strategies for achieving deep work – all of which require intention. monastic approach. This strategy works by eliminating all sources of distraction and secluding yourself like a monk.
Bimodal approach, which involves setting a clearly defined, long period of seclusion for work and leaving the rest of your time free for everything else.
Rhythmic approach. The idea here is to form a habit of doing deep work for blocks of, say, 90 minutes and using a calendar to track your accomplishments.
Journalistic strategy is to take any unexpected free time in your daily routine to do deep work.
Define your space
Define boundaries
Make your deep work sustainable
Scheduling both work and free time is essential to restoring energy. scheduling everything you do, you'll free up time for being mindful of how you spend it. At the start of every workday, create a schedule that's divided into blocks of at least 30 minutes. In this schedule you should set both work and personal tasks like time to relax, eat or catch up on email.
Cultivate awareness about how you spend your time.
Plan your evenings and weekends ahead so you can take actions toward specific goals
Planning your evenings and weekends around activities other than those involving the internet