“Deep Work” by Cal Newport — The Only Skill You Need in Your Life Toolbox

“A deep life is a good life, any way you look at it.” — Cal Newport

Deep Work first came across my radar a few years ago―it came highly recommended to my partner, who proceeded to absorb the book in its entirety in a couple of days. I held off on reading it then because:

• I was too busy trying to keep my head above water at the startup I was working at,
• I judged it to be one of those books that gave away everything in its title and would have diminishing value after the first chapter, and
• I have this silly rule that I’ll only read a book if it appears in my life at least three times.

Last month, Deep Work appeared for the third time―in conversation with the friend who had first recommended the book to my partner. I was no longer working, and was instead embracing fun-employment whilst trying to solve the meaning of life and determining my next step. My partner felt the book deserved a read in its entirety as golden nuggets are scattered throughout, so I took it to heart and decided it was time to plunge into the depths of Newport’s book.

The following is a summary of the book consisting of my highlights and takeaways, ending with a section of my…