Here at The Perfect Planner®, we have long used the concept of "Deep Work", a crucial skill to improve productivity and the quality of our most important work. It refers to the ability to focus on a cognitively demanding task for an extended period without any distractions. Sounds like a fantasy, right? It's not!

According to Cal Newport, author of the book "Deep Work," it is a crucial skill especially in today's distracted world. Deep Work can be fine tuned to best fit your needs, but here are a few steps to help get you started: 

1. Schedule deep work time: This could be an hour in the morning or a couple of hours in the afternoon, depending on your schedule and work demands.
   
   
2. Choose challenging tasks: We're not talking about your daily to do lists here. Choose tasks that require your full attention and concentration.
   
   
3. Start with shorter time blocks: Begin with blocks of around 45 minutes and gradually work your way up to 75-90 minute blocks. This allows you to build up your ability to focus for longer periods.
   
   
4. Eliminate distractions: Turn off notifications on your phone, log out of social media accounts, and avoid any unnecessary interruptions. Even a quick 2-minute distraction can pull you out of your zone and disrupt your productivity. Studies show us you lose 23 minutes of productivity for that short interruption! 

Deep work is a skill that requires practice and dedication, but the benefits are well worth the effort. Make Deep Work time a part of your regular routine to take your work to the next level!