Slow Productivity by Cal Newport
Slow Productivity by Cal Newport challenges the frenzied pace of the modern workplace, suggesting that our relentless rush to be ever more efficient is actually making us less productive.
I like how Newport makes the case for a radical shift in how we think about work. Instead of glorifying the hustle, he proposes a “slow productivity” approach that values deep work and long-term value over quick, shallow tasks.
Newport isn’t suggesting we work less—rather, that we work better. By rethinking our relationship with work and technology, we can escape the cycle of busyness and burnout.
What I Liked
I love Newport’s tone and approach. The book has excellent stories, tangible examples, and truly useful takeaways.
What I Did Not Like
It’s not a criticism per say, but the book does have a narrow focus on knowledge workers.
Notes from Principles of Slow Productivity
I had a lot of notes from the book, but it boils down to –
- Do fewer things
- Work at a natural pace
- Obsess over quality
Say no to busyness. Improve the system, not the individual.
Visible activity might be the proxy for productivity but activity is not productivity. We should measure outcomes, not activity.
