Bali, the "Island of the Gods," beckons with its turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and vibrant culture. But for remote workers, paradise can pose a unique challenge: balancing time differences and the demands of work – including focused, cognitively demanding tasks – with the island's alluring distractions. So, can a North American citizen working from Bali truly achieve the laser-sharp concentration synonymous with Deep Work? Absolutely!
Understanding Deep Work
The term was coined by Cal Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown University and author of “Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World.” In his book, Newport defines deep work as a state of distraction-free concentration when your brain works at its maximum potential. This approach can produce quality results in less time.
The Challenges of Deep Work in Bali
Bali does present several challenges for Deep Work:
🕑 Time Zone: The 12-16 hour time difference with North America can disrupt your natural sleep-wake cycle, impacting focus and energy. Arranging real-time meetings and calls can also be challenging.
🎉 So much to explore: Bali's laid-back vibe, abundant social scene and abundance of cultural sights begging to be explored can lure you away from focused work. It’s a nice problem to have!
Carving Out Your Deep Work Oasis
Despite these challenges, you can cultivate Deep Work in Bali with strategic planning and discipline.
Our Co-Founder, Elodie, has already spent one cohort in Bali and will be heading back again for our next 3-month Boundless Experience there in April. She has found ways to not only make it work but make it Deep Work! Here are her top tips:
📅 Schedule Deep Work Sessions
Block out specific times for Deep Work. Whilst North America and Europe are sleeping you can get some of your best work done! Communicate these times with colleagues and set boundaries if you need to.
🕝 Make time zone differences work FOR you
Schedule meetings and calls back-to-back during North American business hours to maximise uninterrupted Deep Work time in Bali. Use some time on Fridays to review your meetings for the coming week. Which are essential and which can be done asynchronously? Living in Bali will encourage you to be more intentional and strategic with your meeting planning.
💪🏽 Embrace flexibility
Be prepared to adjust your schedule occasionally based on external factors, but maintain your ongoing commitment to Deep Work sessions.
💻 Create a Dedicated Workspace
Find a quiet, well-equipped space conducive to concentration. Use noise-cancelling headphones and consider co-working spaces with dedicated "quiet zones." Depending on the day, I alternate between the Boundless Coworking Hub in Bali and coffee shops with great internet access. There are plenty close to the Education Centre!.
🔕 Embrace Offline Mode
Disconnect from notifications and social media during Deep Work sessions. Use tools like website blockers and apps that temporarily disable internet access.
Power Tip: Check out ‘Freedom’ - a fantastic app and website blocking tool created by one of our amazing Boundless Families!
😴 Optimise Sleep Hygiene
Prioritise sleep by adjusting your schedule gradually and establishing a consistent sleep routine. Melatonin supplements can help to manage jet lag. And I’m lucky enough to be able to share the load of morning drop-off with my partner! Just takes good communication and coordination.
👍🏽 Leverage the Advantages
Use Bali's slower pace to your advantage. Schedule deep work sessions during quieter times of the day. When America is sleeping, I’m at my Deep Work best.
🥰 Find Your Tribe
Connect with other remote workers who value Deep Work. Shared accountability and understanding can be invaluable. My tribe are the Boundless Life community parents - most of whom are remote workers seeking the same benefits that Deep Work offers.
🧘🏽♀️Mindful Moments
Consider incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga into your routine to further enhance focus and manage distractions. I join the Boundless community weekly yoga and it’s like a master reset!
You can do it too!!
Deep Work is a conscious choice. While working from Bali has its challenges to navigate, it also presents unique opportunities for focus and rejuvenation. By strategically planning your Deep Work sessions and embracing the island's slower pace, you can tap into your peak potential and create your own productive paradise in Bali.
If you are ready to explore your Deep Work potential in Blissful Bali our 3-Month Experience (April-June) and 4-Week Getaways (July and August) are THE perfect time to do it. Let’s talk about you joining us!
