Deep work Rules for focused success in a distracted world

This book attempts to explain the concept of "deep work" and to act as an instruction manual for achieving one's best work, but the theoretical basis behind its framework is unconvincing. There are some interesting concepts in the book, but the links between "deep work" and the research presented are tenuous and tangential, and the whole book sounds like the rant of a Luddite skeptical of the benefits of modern technology. The main problem is that the author cites a lot of research that does not support his central concept. He cites research that explores the concept of flow in work as well as the benefit of leisure time, but those seem like diametrically opposed ideas, and he does not have a cohesive argument to join those and other disparate concepts together to clearly define the benefits of "deep work." The lack of original research, or perhaps a deeper literature review, really weakens this book. While "deep work" seems to provide benefits, this text does not properly make the case that it does. Summing Up: Optional. --Alvin Dantes, Florida International University

In this strong self-help book, Newport (So Good They Can't Ignore You) declares that the habits of modern professionals-checking email at all hours, rushing from meeting to meeting, and valuing multitasking above all else-only stand in the way of truly valuable work. According to him, everyone should practice deep work: "professional activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push your cognitive capabilities to their limit." Newport calls on psychology and neuroscience, as well as common sense, to back up his recommendations. As to why people don't already work this way, he implicates a cultural narrative that stresses activity over concentration and that encourages workers to follow the path of least resistance. Newport encourages readers to take breaks from technology, recharge with downtime, leave social media, and reply to emails more purposefully. It's tempting to blow off the message as the complaints of an admitted non-technophile, but Newport's disarming self-awareness-"Deep work is not some nostalgic affectation of writers and early-20th-century philosophers"-and emphasis on a meaningful work practice that's "rich with productivity and meaning" makes for an excellent lesson in focusing on quality rather than quantity at work. (Jan.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.