Two Types of Work

More generally, tasks that require little concentration seem to be best done in batches if possible, while tasks that require a lot of concentration seem to be best done individually, with as few distractions as one can manage.

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Type I: Reflective Work

• ≈ deep work ≈ real work ≈ high-value work
• Things we can to do to progress our life
• e.g., focused tasks, “important but not urgent” tasks
• “Professional activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push your cognitive capabilities to their limit. These efforts create new value, improve your skills and are hard to replicate.” — [@newportDeepWorkRules2016]
• Better done in “single-tasking” mode

Type II: Reactive Work

• ≈ shallow work ≈ fake/pseudo work ≈ low-value work
• Things we have to do to maintain our life (i.e., status quo) ¹
• e.g., administrative, logistical, and maintenance tasks, checking messages&emails, household chores, etc.
• “Non cognitively demanding logistical-style tasks often performed while distracted. These efforts tend to not create much new value in the world and are easy to replicate.” — [@newportDeepWorkRules2016]
• Better done in “multi-tasking” mode ²

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It’s crucial to schedule time for both types of work to keep life in order. Think of it like managing a boat: admin tasks are like bailing out water that’s piling up — essential for keeping the boat afloat but not propelling it forward. On the other hand, focused tasks are like rowing, actively moving you toward your goals and desired direction. Neglecting either can lead to problems; too much focus on rowing without managing admin tasks might sink the boat due to neglected responsibilities like taxes or bills. Striking a balance ensures both progress and stability.

Footnotes

1. See also: The Maintenance Day ↩

2. Multitasking isn’t always bad — you just have to make sure the conditions are right. ↩