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seven tips for deeper work

if you can’t sit down and produce, nothing else matters.

hey friend,

if you can’t sit down and produce, nothing else matters.
not your talent, not your intelligence.
deep work is the biggest needle-mover I’ve found in nearly 15 years of entrepreneurship.

I stumbled on this after reading the one thing by Gary Keller and deep work by Cal Newport.

they made me realize: set aside dedicated time, block distractions, and make your work count.

over the years, I’ve refined my own strategy.

here are my 7 tips for unlocking deep work:

  1. use a focus aid
    • caffeine: tea, coffee, whatever works.
    • alpha gpc: 300 to 600mg (test for tolerance).
    • nicotine gum (2mg max, 1 to 2 days a week), risky but potent.
      I’m not a doctor, do your own research.
  2. block time and black out
    • schedule 2 to 4 hours (or more) on your calendar.
    • treat it like a sacred appointment.
    • no phone calls, no errands, no excuses.
  3. create a ritual
    • a cup of coffee, a breathwork session, a favorite playlist, whatever cues your brain you’re about to dive in.
    • once the ritual is done, start.
  4. have a target
    • know exactly what you’re trying to accomplish before you start.
    • “write 3 video scripts” or “outline a new course.”
    • if you finish early, you’re done. if it takes 4 hours, great.
  5. make it a habit
    • daily is ideal: 2 to 4 hours of deep work every morning.
    • if you can’t swing daily, try weekly or monthly.
    • consistency > intensity.
  6. be organized
    • use a dedicated space, software, or note-taking app.
    • one window, one tab, no digital clutter.
    • the second you open an extra tab, you’re risking distractions.
  7. prioritize sleep
    • none of these focus tips matter if you’re sleep-deprived.
    • aim for 7 to 9 hours.
    • the more rested you are, the deeper you can go.

deep work is a superpower.

the more people get scattered with endless scrolling and infinite distractions, the more you stand out by focusing.

those who produce will thrive.

no fancy tactic replaces sitting your butt down and doing the work.

so block out the noise, take your chosen focus aid (if any), and get after it.

that’s how you win.

try harder,
JM

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