---
title: Two Types of Work
created: 2024-12-12T21:39:10
modified: 2026-02-11T07:20:10
---

> [More generally, tasks that require little concentration seem to be best done in batches if possible, while tasks that require a lot of concentration seem to be best done individually, with as few distractions as one can manage.](https://terrytao.wordpress.com/2008/08/07/on-time-management/)

---

# Type I: Reflective Work

> “Professional activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push your cognitive capabilities to their limit. These efforts create new value, improve your skills and are hard to replicate.” — [@newportDeepWorkRules2016]

* ≈ [deep work](deep-work.md) ≈ real work ≈ high-value work ≈ [heavy work](https://www.workingtheorys.com/p/make-something-heavy)
* Things we can to do to _progress_ our life
* e.g., focused tasks, “important but not urgent” tasks
* Better done in “[single-tasking](you-can-achieve-anything-if-you-focus-on-one-thing-at-a-time.md) (單工)” mode

# Type II: Reactive Work

> “Non cognitively demanding logistical-style tasks often performed while distracted. These efforts tend to not create much new value in the world and are easy to replicate.” — [@newportDeepWorkRules2016]

* ≈ shallow work ≈ fake/pseudo work ≈ low-value work ≈ light work
* Things we have to do to _maintain_ our life (i.e., status quo)
* e.g., administrative, logistical, and maintenance tasks, [checking messages&emails](batching-emails-and-text-messages.md), household chores, meal preparation, etc. [^1]
* Better done in “[multi-tasking (多工)](temptation-bundling.md)” mode [^2] [^3]

---

It’s crucial to schedule time for both types of work to keep life in order. Think of it like managing a boat: _admin tasks_ are like bailing out water that’s piling up — essential for keeping the boat afloat but not propelling it forward. On the other hand, _focused tasks_ are like rowing, actively moving you toward your goals and desired direction. Neglecting either can lead to problems; too much focus on rowing without managing admin tasks might sink the boat due to neglected responsibilities like taxes or bills. Striking a balance ensures both progress and stability.

[^1]: 日文 [Mendokusai](https://ippoippojapanese.co.uk/blog-word-of-the-week-mendokusai/)：形容不想做一件事，卻又必須去做的情況（annoying, but unavoidable）。
[^2]: See also: [The Maintenance Day](The%20Maintenance%20Day.md)
[^3]: Multitasking isn’t always bad — you just have to make sure the conditions are right.