Make Disconnecting A Priority
In any endeavor, whether you are leading a multi-billion dollar organization, rebuilding an engine or cleaning a bathroom, focus and clear thinking results in great work. I’m very clear when I introduce myself to a new team that our focus is everyday bringing our greatest version of leadership and every moment should be spent supporting the organization’s trajectory. Very rarely does that mean that we should be consumed with email every waking hour and sitting in bad meetings responding to email.
I set the expectation with my boss and teams that I read every single email that comes to me and will respond within 24 hrs, worse case 72hrs if I’m traveling internationally. Typically I only check email twice a day. I block time at the beginning and end of every day. If they have an urgent issue that needs my attention, call or text me. I am available 24/7 via that channel. Also, I do not check email, or expect them to check email after standard working hours, weekends or on vacation. This doesn’t mean that I or they don’t work during those times. When we need to get things done, we need to do what it takes and work when and how is best for us. When I am working during non-standard times, I don’t expect them to respond to my email. If I need them, I will text and/or call their cell. One time, I had a staff member tell me that he was afraid to show his wife my policy, as then he would have to pay attention to her. I can only guess that there are others who use work as a reason as to why other aspects of their life are not going well. I highly recommend, Getting Things Done, by David Allan for anyone who feels overwhelmed. Limiting my “connectedness” gives me headspace. Some of my best insights about work come when I’m not working on work. With a clear head and focus, I’m able to weave the bits of information coming at me all day to identify risks, opportunities, create a strategy and initiate the right action.
As an executive, my time is best used collecting information, thinking and guiding. I know I’m on task when the majority of my week is spent in meetings with gaps for thinking/planning/following-up. In meetings, I’m an Ogre about no laptops unless you are presenting or note-taking. It is scientifically proven that multitasking is a myth. Meetings are for creating, clarifying, debating, decision making, and requesting action – if you are checking email throughout a meeting either you are not needed in the meeting or the person running the meeting should not be running the meeting. Have better meetings. If a meeting is wasting your time, speak up, give constructive feedback. Time is the most valuable asset you have. If you do not make your priorities your priority, others will quickly make their priorities/incompetence your priority.
Share how you balance being effective and connected in the comments below!
Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash