What is a "deep life"?

The concept of a "deep life" is explained by Cal Newport as living in radical alignment with one's values in a way that is authentic, interesting, and resilient. It goes beyond the traditional notion of the "good life," which often centers around virtue, ethics, and moderation, and includes a component of remarkability that resonates deeply with others.

Key characteristics of a deep life include the following elements:

• Radical Alignment: Making significant changes in one's life to align with personal values and priorities, which might involve relocating, changing careers, or altering daily routines.
• Intentional Living: Prioritizing aspects of life that are deeply important and working systematically to nurture them, such as health, family, work, and personal growth.
• Resilience and Meaning: Building a life resilient to external disruptions and filled with meaning and purpose, often by focusing on long-term fulfillment rather than short-term pleasures.
• Craftsmanship and Contribution: Emphasizing high-quality work and contributions, both professionally and personally, to create a sense of craftsmanship and accomplishment.

Cal Newport uses the pandemic context to highlight how disruptions can clear away superficial distractions and push people to think more deeply about what truly matters in their lives 1 2. He also introduces the idea of "deep life buckets," which are key areas like craft, community, constitution (health), contemplation (philosophy), and celebration that need to be balanced and prioritized to achieve a deep life 3.

Ultimately, Newport emphasizes that a deep life is not just about having a virtuous life but adding elements of excitement and authenticity that make one's life notable and interesting to both oneself and others 4 5.