The Math of Why You Can't Focus at Work
13 days ago
- #interruptions
- #productivity
- #deep-work
- The article discusses the impact of interruptions on deep work and productivity.
- Three key parameters define productivity: λ (interruption rate), Δ (recovery time), and θ (minimum focus time needed).
- High interruption rates (λ) and long recovery times (Δ) significantly reduce productive capacity.
- Research shows real-world interruption rates are often higher than people estimate, making deep work difficult.
- Strategies to improve productivity include reducing interruptions, shortening recovery time, and breaking tasks into smaller chunks.
- The article includes visual simulations of workdays under different interruption and recovery scenarios.
- Small changes in λ, Δ, or θ can lead to significant improvements in productivity.
- The concept of 'capacity' is introduced to measure how many meaningful work units can be completed in a day.
- Practical tips include protecting focus time, managing task sizes, and optimizing recovery periods.