Seven habits to stay focused in a world full of distractions. The startup Drake equation. Why feedback can make work more meaningful.
Welcome to a new issue of the newsletter, “Journal of discoveries.”
Each week, I check a list of hundreds of sources of inspiration to spot exciting articles, videos, podcasts, and books on personal development, leadership, management, technology, and innovation.
While this newsletter will remain a free resource, you might consider becoming a paid subscriber to support my work, and get access to my searchable Notion database. Thanks!
And now, let’s dive in!
One “must” for this week
That urge to check your phone isn't just a habit - it's a carefully engineered addiction.
Research shows our devices are specifically designed to exploit our brain's reward systems, training us to crave constant interruptions through perfectly timed dopamine hits.
The cost? Studies reveal longer completion times, increased errors, and rising stress levels as our mental resources drain with each context switch.
But as Rebecca Knight shares in this article, there's hope, starting with the foundation. Rather than jumping straight to productivity hacks, experts emphasize starting with the basics first: with ourselves.
Quality sleep, hydration, and regular physical activity are needed for sustained focus. Combined with environmental "focus rituals" - like a dedicated workspace or consistent routine - these fundamentals prime your brain for deep work.
While we can't eliminate all distractions, understanding how our brain works allows us to make intentional choices about where we direct our limited cognitive capacity.
Personal development
Seven habits to stay focused in a world full of distractions
The hidden psychology of career choices
How much can I bluff in my resume+interview?
Rewriting your personal narrative for growth
The surprisingly strong case for luck in sales
The two types of status: bought vs. earned
What job crafting looks like
Innovation
Is AI coming for your job? Depends on who you ask
The end of search, the beginning of research
AI in the workplace: a report for 2025
The age of fragmentation: AI’s impact on content and code
China's artificial sun could usher in unlimited clean energy
On the (un?)importance of design
Leadership and management
Why feedback can make work more meaningful
Reducing power gradients
Five signs a remote worker is burning out
For employees, change is everywhere, all the time
Human exclusion from creative tasks worsens quality and worker satisfaction
How to build a relationship between your employee and your boss
Employees see middle managers as an organization’s moral compass
One book
“The five types of wealth” by Sahil Bloom.
See you next Saturday,
Roberto
I’m hosting a LinkedIn live event with Said Saddouk!
The opposite of "funny" is not "serious" 🤓
The opposite of "funny" is "boring" 😴
Said Saddouk defines himself as "the Facilitainer" and is the living proof of this.
He creates virtual experiences, and is a trainer and coach who teaches others to do the same. Thanks to what he shared, I experimented with stream decks, virtual cameras and sounds, and leveled up my virtual communication skills.
His mix of technical mastery and humor is unique 🙌
I’m excited to invite you to a LinkedIn Live event with Said:
📅 Wednesday, February 19th
⏰ 16:30 CET
We will talk about leadership, communication, how to engage and inspire people, and the value of playfulness.
Whenever you're ready, here's how I can support you
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