There is a notable difference between my ability to complete an engineering task when properly focused as opposed to when I’m in a rush. If my focus is on clearing out my inbox and responding to as many messages as possible in a short period of time, the attention devoted to the tasks that I touch will inevitably be compromised.

And the simple posture shift that’s exhibited by saying, “Okay, let’s really dig in here and see what’s going on” instead of, “Okay, I’ve got a million other things to do today so let’s figure this out quickly” is significant. The amusing bit is that I don’t necessarily need to work at a slower pace, just a more deliberate one.

The work is the work, not getting through the work.