3 tech leaders reveal their secrets for deep thinking

In today's world filled with constant interruptions and alerts, staying focused on one task feels more challenging than ever.

Three leaders from Slack, EY, and Superhuman explained how they pause to allow for deep, focused thinking amidst packed schedules.

The overarching message: Whether it involves setting aside their phones or moving to a different environment, all emphasised the importance of physically disconnecting to enhance concentration on their current tasks.

Slack’s chief technical officer, Parker Harris, mentions that when he aims for concentrated work, he completely mutes his notifications. Additionally, he places his phone face down to avoid temptation.

"I find the ping sound or any similar noise very annoying," Harris comments on notifications.

Harris notes that outside of these scenarios, he usually keeps his notifications on. However, he might not immediately address every single message he gets, given his work environment is full of interruptions.

"Everyone needs methods to focus," Harris remarks.

EY's global innovation leader mentions that for deep contemplation, which can involve strategising or preparing presentations, he opts for outdoor activities like walking or running. Depa also enjoys playing soccer and coaches his son's sports teams. 

He believes that being outside removes him from computers and gadgets, letting him "just think."

Depa warns that if he has too much consecutive travel or numerous interviews, it leaves his mind "overloaded." He emphasises the importance of having balance to mitigate such a state.

Shishir Mehrotra, the CEO of AI productivity platform Superhuman, finds "altering physical spaces very useful" for recharging, and points out that the power of taking a walk is often "undervalued."

He also mentions avoiding certain "fidgets," which he describes as activities people engage in to "clear their mind" or refresh their mental state.

"Social media is a fidget I cautiously avoid," Mehrotra comments, labeling it as profoundly distracting.

Instead, he opts for "mentally engaging games," particularly ones for family interaction, like Scrabble or The New York Times’ Crossplay.

He enjoys listening to podcasts while driving, expressing particular interest in "Acquired," which offers extensive company retrospectives, such as those on LVMH and Google. Mehrotra states that if opting for a mental refreshment, it should be "a worthwhile activity that leaves a satisfying feeling."

"Choose valuable mind-refreshers that you're happy with," Mehrotra advises.