Slow Productivity
Do fewer things, work at a natural pace, obsess over quality
Fewer commitments, a sustainable pace, and an obsession with the quality of the work itself: Cal Newport's three principles against pseudo-productivity, meaning visible busyness as a proxy for value. He draws them from how scientists, writers and artists historically produced meaningful output. A useful corrective for anyone whose calendar is already full of blocks.
People on record
Sorted by strength of stance
Does it: documented as part of their own routine. Recommends: explicitly advises other people to do it. Discusses: covered it substantively without clear personal adoption; this can include criticism or disagreement.
- Cal NewportRecommends
Computer science professor · author of Deep Work
Makes the case in his own book for fewer commitments, a natural working pace, and an obsession with quality over visible busyness.
Source: calnewport.com: his books - Ali AbdaalDiscusses
Doctor turned YouTuber · author of Feel-Good Productivity
Sat down with Cal Newport to discuss doing fewer things at a natural pace and what that buys you long term.
Source: aliabdaal.com: podcast episode with Cal Newport on slow productivity
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Book entry · notes paraphrased from cited sources, quoted excerpts copied from the transcript they link to. Not medical advice. Not affiliated with, endorsed by, or reviewed by anyone listed. How this works.