Your Focus Questions, Answered (FAQ)
As you begin your deep work journey, questions will naturally arise. Here are answers to some of the most common ones we hear from people trying to build their focus.
Should I listen to music or use white noise?
This is highly individual. For some, the right kind of music—typically instrumental, ambient, or electronic music without lyrics—can help mask distracting background noise and signal to the brain that it’s time to focus. For others, any sound, even music, is a distraction. White noise or brown noise can be a great alternative, as it provides a consistent sonic blanket that blocks out sudden, jarring noises. The key is to experiment. Try working in complete silence, then with ambient music, then with white noise. See what helps you achieve a state of flow most easily. The goal is to find a soundscape that supports your focus, rather than competes for it.
But isn’t multitasking necessary in my job?
This is a common belief, but it’s important to distinguish between true multitasking and rapid task switching. The human brain cannot pay attention to two cognitively demanding tasks at the same time. What we call multitasking is actually just switching our attention back and forth very quickly, with all the cognitive costs we discussed earlier. While some jobs require you to be responsive, you can still structure your day for focus. Try “batching” similar tasks. For example, instead of answering emails as they arrive, dedicate two or three specific 30-minute blocks per day to process your inbox. This allows you to stay responsive without constantly fragmenting your attention throughout the day.
What if I have zero motivation to start?
Motivation is a fickle emotion; it often follows action rather than preceding it. Don’t wait to feel motivated. Instead, rely on your rituals and the principle of reducing friction. When motivation is low, make the first step laughably small. Your goal isn’t to “write the report”; it’s to “open the document and write one sentence.” Or to “put on my headphones and set a timer for five minutes.” More often than not, taking that tiny first action is enough to get the ball rolling. The feeling of making even minuscule progress can generate the motivation you need to continue.
Can I do deep work in the evenings or on weekends?
You absolutely can, but it’s crucial to be intentional about it and protect your downtime. Deep work requires significant mental energy, and your brain and body need time to recover. For general health and cognitive function, getting adequate sleep and rest is non-negotiable, as emphasized by institutions like the National Institutes of Health. If you choose to do a deep work session in the evening, make sure you still perform a shutdown ritual afterward to clearly delineate work time from personal time. Avoid working right up until bedtime, as this can interfere with your sleep. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s a vital part of a sustainable and productive life.
