#450: How to Make Time for What Really Matters Every Day

Infinity Pools

John Zeratsky introduces the concept of 'infinity pools,' which are apps or services with endless, replenishing content that can easily consume our time and attention. These digital distractions, like social media and streaming services, exploit our natural tendencies to seek out stories and variable rewards, making them particularly hard to resist. Zeratsky explains that these apps have become the default in our lives, often leading to mindless usage that we don't even notice.

An infinity pool is any app or service or product that has an infinite and replenishing source of content inside of it. If you can pull to refresh or if it streams nonstop, like the Netflix example of starting the next episode right after the previous one ends, that's an infinity pool.

--- John Zeratsky

To combat this, he suggests creating barriers to distraction by removing such apps from our phones or signing out of websites that are particularly distracting 1 2.

   

Changing Defaults

Changing default behaviors and settings can significantly reduce distractions and enhance focus. Zeratsky encourages people to think about the underlying value of the apps they use and whether they need constant access to them. By removing apps from phones or logging out of websites, individuals can create barriers to distraction and free up time for more meaningful activities.

We encourage people to think about what's the underlying value or purpose for using that thing. Because we start using an app or a service or a tool for a reason. There's obviously something good about it.

--- John Zeratsky

He also emphasizes the importance of flexibility and forgiveness in making these changes, suggesting that small, incremental adjustments can lead to significant improvements over time 3 4.

   

Efficiency Techniques

Zeratsky shares efficiency techniques to maintain focus and manage productivity effectively. He highlights the benefits of focusing on one project for an extended period, as it reduces the cognitive load of switching tasks and allows for deeper work. This approach can be applied to both professional and personal projects, making them more manageable and enjoyable.

When you can sort of load all of that knowledge and expertise about what you're working on into your working memory, into your brain, it's not like you make five times as much progress because it's five days. You make way more, you make so much more progress because you don't have to switch in costs, you don't have to reload your working memory every time you try to pick up that project again.

--- John Zeratsky

Additionally, he suggests using a 'might do' list instead of a traditional to-do list, allowing for flexibility and adaptability as priorities change 5 6.