The Power of the 'Grand Gesture': How Hanbury Hall x FLOWN Events Unleash Deep Work

So I’ve a bit of a thing for those clips on YouTube, of a grand piano in the middle of a bustling train station or shopping centre. A skilled pianist wanders by, decides to take a seat, and suddenly a mundane commute is transformed into a memorable experience.

A flash dance on the street, a trip away — something about the willing disruption to routines just always feels special. Interestingly, this kind of thing is also known to help spark novel thoughts, kindle creativity, and can even kickstart your momentum on a meaty project.

Thinker and writer Cal Newport calls this effect ‘the grand gesture’. He explains how a significant change to your routine or environment can produce an outsized impact on your attention.

When it comes to your work, this usually comes through taking a tangible step that loudly signals to your brain: "Hey, it's high-stakes productivity time." Think entrepreneur Peter Shankman, who once booked a $4000 round trip to Tokyo just to write during the flight, so that he’d deliver on a two-week deadline for a book contract. Yeah, you read that right — a whole book, completed, start to finish in one flight.

Why Do 'Grand Gestures' Work?

A 'grand gesture' works through a psychological domino effect. First, the very act of making a grand gesture signifies commitment. It tells your brain that you're serious about the task at hand. Second, it alters your environment in a way that minimizes distractions and maximizes focus. Essentially, it puts your brain into a state of heightened concentration, allowing you to channel your skills more efficiently.

Coworking Spaces and the Grand Gesture

Traditionally, coworking spaces offer an escape from the domestic chaos and distractions of working from home. But not all coworking spaces are created equal. So what if your coworking space itself could be a grand gesture? That’s where Hanbury Hall's collaboration with FLOWN comes into the picture.

The Hanbury Hall x FLOWN Events: A Grand Gesture You Can't Miss

Brought to you by FLOWN, the platform for deep work, this limited series of Pop-Up Flocks offers more than just co-working. You’ll be guided through a structured practice to help you focus, with periods of rest for your brain – all designed to get you to peak productivity amid the gorgeous environs of Hanbury Hall.

Perfect for you if…

• You want to dedicate time to an important task

• You’re motivated when you work alongside other people

• You struggle with procrastination when you’re WFH

• You want to experience the brain hacks that lead to peak focus

In summary, a grand gesture is more than an act; it's a statement of intent. It sets the stage for deep work, reducing distraction and increasing focus. Our Hanbury Hall x FLOWN Pop-Up Flocks are designed to be the grand gesture you need to get unstuck or deliver on important work — and all for a lot less than a flight to Japan.