Deep Questions with Cal Newport

Ep. 77: Does Email Have a Mind of Its Own?

Below are the questions covered in today&amp;aposs episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. DEEP DIVE: Does email have a mind of its own? [6:23] WORK QUESTIONS  - How do I avoid boring research? [16:35]  - How do I learn new skills without becoming overwhelmed? [19:44]  - How do I better structure workplace communication? [23:34]  - How do I say "no" more often? [29:41] TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS  - When should I stop listening to your podcast? [39:12]  - How do I deal with excessive browser tabs? [40:14]  - Will the world eventually force me to buy a smartphone? [49:08] DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS  - (A brief meditation on the pleasures of regular autonomous creative work) [52:20]  - How long should planning take? [57:28]  - Is reading fiction a waste of time? [59:04]  - What is your opinion of Alexa? [1:02:41]  - Is a mission different than a passion? [1:06:22] Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music.

Cal Newport is a computer science professor and a New York Times bestselling author who writes about the impact of technology on society, and the struggle to work and live deeply in a world increasingly mired in digital distractions. On this podcast, he answers questions from his readers and offers advice about cultivating focus, productivity, and meaning amidst the noise that pervades our lives.