757 - The Art of Deep Study

The Cliff Ravenscraft Show - Mindset Answer Man

In this episode, I share my experiences and thoughts on what I call the art of deep study. Though I don't claim mastery of this skill, I've experienced transformative seasons of focus and concentration that have profoundly shaped my personal, professional, and spiritual life.

Instead of rushing through books or materials, I advocate for a deliberate approach that prioritizes depth over breadth. I share eight practices that have defined my most impactful periods of deep study. Here's what we'll cover:

Practices for Deep Study

1. Choose a Quiet, Distraction-Free Space

   Create an environment free of interruptions, where focus can flourish. Silence notifications, use airplane mode, and consider soundproof locations or noise-canceling headphones.

2. Clear Your Mind Before Beginning

   Use rituals like meditation or journaling (e.g., Morning Pages) to calm your mind and transition into a state of focus.

3. Approach Reading as Soulful Study

   Read slowly and intentionally. Let each sentence resonate with your mind and soul. Digest the deeper meaning behind the words.

4. Be Present With What Is Being Shared

   Dedicate uninterrupted time blocks. Gently bring your attention back to the material if your mind starts to wander.

5. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

   It’s not about how many pages or chapters you complete but the depth of understanding and insight you gain.

6. Take Notes

   Write down key insights, quotes, and reflections. Create detailed journals or visual mind maps to connect concepts and reinforce learning.

7. Implement

   Apply the lessons you learn in real-life situations. Practice new skills and share your insights with others to deepen understanding.

8. Revisit

   Regularly review past materials and your notes. Schedule daily, weekly, or monthly reflection sessions to reinforce and deepen your understanding.