The author believes that actions are caused either by internal or external triggers. These triggers have the ability to steer you right (traction) or wrong (distraction), the model is how the book is structured. The book contains two additional sections - managing distractions at the workplace and managing distraction with children.

The ideas presented in each part of the book were well researched. There was nothing extraordinary about any of the stuff mentioned in any of the parts. Yet, the book was well-structured and that made reading an easy exercise. The ideas mentioned definitely have merit. My favorite part was the part on managing distractions by making pacts. The ideas of effort pact and money pact hold promise for me.

Overall, I think I would benefit from a reread and making a list of things that I can try apart from the pacts.

I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley.

Have you ever gone out with friends or family and there is that one guy who is constantly checking out of the conversation and checking into his phone? Super annoying, right? Well, I'm that guy. I didn't realize what it was called until I read Nir Eyal's book but I am a 'phubber' (phone snubber).

As a real estate broker, coach, and father of 6 boys, I am always being distracted by something. I would get anxious every time the phone chirped or beeped or pinged. Was it a client emergency, do my kids need me ... and most of the time it was nothing but a distraction.

Wow! Practical advice galore in this one. I am already putting it to use and I am beginning to find peace. Spending more time following our life values in traction and being aware of the triggers that pull us away from what's important can lead to a more productive and peaceful life. Nir uses case studies that will challenge the way you have always thought of things and open your mind to other options.

I especially enjoyed the section he put in the book on how to help our children become less distracted. As a father concerned with screen time and non-productive behaviors, there were some absolute gems here. Not surprisingly, I discovered where the problem lies. It's not the screen, it's the parenting and there are some brilliant ideas on how to achieve a better outcome.

Now to put this all into practice. Don't miss this one.

Intractable is a interesting book with valid points. Well written and interesting information about how we are so distracted.

This is a very interesting book, and very relevant to our lifestyles today. The most important thought is that our devices are not totally to blame for our lack of focus and how we are easily distracted. We need to look beneath. The question of 'What are we being distracted from' is also key. I enjoyed the book very much because it is approaching new areas and the aim is to be instrumental in making todays advanced devices work for us and not allowing ourselves to be at their mercy. Basically it is not the devices that need to change it is the way we use them. The only niggle is that the book is written in a very academic style with constant references to quotes and surveys, and it felt a little bit like a dissertation. I was also a bit uncomfortable with the reliance on other apps to control our use of devices, just decide when you are not going to use it and switch it off. We need to get back using the biggest and best app, the grey matter between our ears.. But overall a brilliant book that everyone should read and start talking about.