Ep. 55: Shallow Teams, Vague Goals, and Pandemic Screen Time

In this episode of Deep Questions I answer reader questions about working deeply with shallow teams, taking action on vague goals, and reducing screen time during a pandemic. We also celebrate reaching the million download milestone for this podcast.To submit your own questions, sign up for my mailing list at calnewport.com. You can also submit audio questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/CalNewportPlease consider subscribing (which helps iTunes rankings) and leaving a review or rating (which helps new listeners decide to try the show).Here’s the full list of topics tackled in today’s episode along with the timestamps:DEEP DIVE: The Deep Reset, Part 4WORK QUESTIONS * Overcoming failure to launch with self-help advice [12:19] * Time blocking unpredictable events. [16:34] * Working with people who are the opposite of deep. [18:60] * Deep work for sales jobs (or managers, or support staff). [26:13] * Juggling multiple big projects. [31:14] * Pursuing vague goals. [33:55]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS * Distraction withdrawal symptoms. [37:41] * My tech setup. [45:12] * Achieving video-game level concentration. [50:11] * Learning algorithms on your own. [52:34] * Building a brand without social media. [59:17] * My podcast ingestion strategy. [1:01:42]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS * Digital minimalism and human connection during lockdowns. [1:03:08] * Scheduling free time. [1:13:24] * How to review metrics. [1:16:36] * Overcoming deep work avoidance. [1:17:42]Thanks to listener Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices