90-Minute Deep Work Block

A strategy for achieving deep, focused work through a dedicated 90-minute block, primarily in the morning, to build mental resilience and improve productivity.

Core Concept

• Dedicate one 90-minute block early in day for complete focus
• Resist all distractions and stay committed to single task
• Build mental resilience through "no-go operations" (saying no to distractions)
• Similar to Cal Newport's "Deep Work" philosophy

Implementation Guidelines

• Turn off phone/put on airplane mode
• Avoid internet access (can use Freedom app to block)
• Stay focused on single task (writing, reading, or comprehension)
• Avoid context switching, even for small interruptions
• Be careful of bathroom breaks disrupting mental frame

Benefits

• Accomplishes significant work in focused period
• Builds ability to engage in deep work more easily throughout day
• Develops skill to maintain focus in shorter periods later
• Transfers to other life aspects (relationships, exercise, etc.)
• Improves ability to resist external disruptions

Mental Framework Components

• Uses prefrontal cortex for:
  • Duration: How long to maintain focus
  • Path: What approach to take
  • Outcome: What results to achieve
• Builds ability to resist "DPOs" (other people's duration, path, outcomes)
• Creates deeper connection with work through frame-setting
• Helps brain orient toward specific goals

Context Switching

• Brain good at emergency context switching
• But 90% of valuable work requires sustained focus
• Context switching is "deadly" to productivity
• Must protect against unnecessary switches
• Morning time (post-sleep) ideal for setting mental frame