The One Productivity Tip That Changed My Life: Deep Work
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, always running out of time, or just not getting things done the way you’d like, I have one game-changing tip for you: deep work. (I talk more about that here too).
Sounds simple, right? Create focused time to work on what truly matters. But let me tell you—it’s easier said than done. After years of trial and error, I’ve found a way to make deep work a daily habit. It’s saved me hours, boosted my productivity, and even given me more guilt-free time to relax.
Let’s break it down: what deep work is, why it’s so powerful, and how you can make it work for you.
What Is Deep Work and Why Does It Matter?
Deep work is about focusing your energy on the tasks that matter most—the ones that have the biggest impact on your goals.
It’s not about checking emails or crossing off minor to-dos. It’s about setting aside time to dive into meaningful, high-value work. Think of it as giving your full attention to the one thing that will make the biggest difference in your life right now.
When you do deep work, you’ll notice a few things:
You’ll save time. Instead of multitasking or spinning your wheels, you’ll work smarter and faster.
You’ll feel less stressed. No more scrambling to finish things last minute.
You’ll make real progress. Whether it’s growing your business, learning a new skill, or completing a big project, you’ll move closer to your goals every day.
Step 1: Choose What to Focus On
The first step is figuring out what deserves your attention. Not everything on your to-do list is worth your time, so how do you decide?
I like using the Eisenhower Matrix (or effort-to-impact matrix). Here’s how it works:
Make a list of tasks.
Sort them into four categories:
High impact, high effort: These are your deep work tasks.
High impact, low effort: Quick wins—do these next.
Low impact, high effort: Delegate these if possible.
Low impact, low effort: Cross these off.
The goal is to focus on the tasks in the high impact, high effort box. These are the ones that truly move the needle.
Step 2: Plan Your Day the Night Before
One of the biggest barriers to deep work is decision fatigue—wasting time figuring out what to do next. Planning your day ahead of time solves this.
Here’s what I do:
Pick your top task. Before bed, write down the most important thing you want to accomplish tomorrow.
Prep your workspace. Leave any tools or materials you’ll need ready to go.
Set your intention. Decide when and where you’ll work on your task.
When you wake up, you won’t waste time wondering where to start. It’ll be right there waiting for you.
Step 3: Beat Procrastination
Getting started can be the hardest part. That’s where procrastination creeps in. The trick is to eliminate distractions before they happen.
Here are a few strategies:
Use focus apps. Apps like One Sec or screen time settings can block distractions like social media. One Sec even asks if you really want to open that app—it’s a game-changer.
Go grayscale. Switching your phone to black-and-white mode makes it less enticing. Try it!
Start small. Psychologists call this an “implementation intention.” Pair your deep work with a trigger: “After I make my morning coffee, I’ll open my laptop and start.” Once you begin, the momentum will build.
Step 4: Stay Focused with the Pomodoro Technique
Even when you’re in deep work mode, it’s easy to get distracted. That’s why I love the Pomodoro Technique.
Here’s how it works:
Set a timer for 25 minutes.
Work on your task—no distractions allowed.
Take a 5-minute break.
Repeat.
It’s amazing how much you can accomplish in short, focused bursts. And once you start, you’ll often find yourself working longer than planned because you’re in the zone.
If you want to try this, check out an app like Minimalist. It’s a clean, simple to-do list app with a built-in Pomodoro timer.
Step 5: Track Your Time
Tracking your time helps you stay accountable and see how much you’ve accomplished. Apps like Rise or Toggl are great for this.
Here’s what I love about time tracking:
It helps you refocus. If you drift off-task, a gentle nudge can bring you back.
It shows your progress. Seeing how much time you’ve spent on meaningful work is incredibly satisfying.
It encourages breaks. Time tracking reminds you to step away and recharge, which is just as important as working.
Step 6: Treat Your Work Like a Movie Night
This might sound silly, but hear me out: set the stage for your work session like you’re about to watch your favorite movie.
Put on noise-canceling headphones. Block out distractions.
Grab a snack and a drink. Stay comfortable and focused.
Play focus music. Apps like Endel create custom soundscapes to help you concentrate.
When you make deep work feel enjoyable, it’s easier to dive in and stay in the zone.
The Impact of Deep Work
Since I started prioritizing deep work, I’ve seen huge changes in my productivity and my life:
I’m getting more done in less time.
My business is growing faster.
I feel less stressed and more in control.
I’m enjoying more guilt-free time off.
The best part? You can start small. Even one 25-minute session a day can make a big difference.
In a Nutshell
Deep work isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things. By focusing on meaningful tasks, planning ahead, and staying intentional, you can create more time, less stress, and real progress toward your goals.
Ready to give it a try? Start with one deep work session tomorrow. Pick a task, set a timer, and dive in.
What’s the one task you’ll focus on first? DM me and let me know—I’d love to hear how deep work makes a difference for you!
About Crystal Eva
Crystal Eva is a Fractional Chief Operating Officer. She empowers and supports women entrepreneurs by streamlining their technology, enhancing client retention, and elevating the client journey and onboarding process with seamless efficiency.
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