A manual to make yourself a more valuable worker

Self-improvement; Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World; By Cal Newport; Piatkus, €20

Bill Gates: retreated to a lakeside cabin Picture: Getty
JK Rowling: took up residence in a five-star hotel Picture: Getty

You have a crucial deadline fast approaching. You open up your laptop, fully intent on putting in at least an hour of solid work. Ten minutes later you are checking your Twitter feed, watching a YouTube video or reading an article about cats that look like ...