This is from my OAK Computing Days!

Managing multiple collaborations and transactions in a tech startup was overwhelming. At one point, I was juggling ten marquee clients simultaneously. The pressure was immense, but I discovered the key to maintaining control and achieving success: clear boundaries.

Here’s how I structured my day for maximum productivity and strategic value.

Morning: The Sacred Time

Rule #1: No Meetings in the Mornings
I instituted a strict rule – no meetings before noon. I was freshest in the morning, so I dedicated this time to planning, thinking, and strategizing. Tackling the biggest rocks – the most critical tasks – required my undivided attention and sharpest focus.

Work expands to fill all available time. By setting firm boundaries, I ensured my mornings were reserved for high-value activities. This approach allowed me to create strategic value before the afternoon chaos began.

Meeting Efficiency: Structured and Short

Rule #2: Preference for Standing Meetings
For meetings later in the day, I preferred standing meetings. Standing kept the energy high and focus sharp. These meetings were planned to last only 30 minutes but could conclude as early as three minutes if the intent was achieved. Meetings were as long as necessary, not bound by the standard 30-minute slots.

Every meeting had an agenda and was led by the person who called it. This leader ensured the meeting stayed on track and covered required points. All meetings were followed by a memo detailing the reason, summarizing the discussion, elaborating on key next steps, and formalizing outcomes. This practice kept everyone on the same page and clarified what needed to be done next.

Respecting Time: A Non-Negotiable

Rule #3: Communication Boundaries
Work-related contact with other team members was discouraged outside the hours of 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, with a few well-known exceptions. This rule ensured everyone’s personal time was respected and clarified when the end-of-day work was expected to be completed.

The shared values created by this open and honest understanding fostered clear expectations and helped build a cultural foundation. This foundation not only respected the separation of work and rest but also created a uniform understanding of the workday. It strengthened a collaborative team structure where people could comfortably lean on each other, especially given the interconnected nature of our work.

Winning the Day

By noon, I generally felt I had already won the day. Creating strategic value and setting the stage for a productive afternoon was key. Even though the latter part of the day could be chaotic, the most critical tasks were already accomplished. This approach maintained a sense of control and ensured my efforts aligned with strategic goals.

Your Turn: Creating Value with Boundaries

Reflect on your work routine. What boundaries do you need to create to deliver value every day? Consider adopting some of these practices:

• Reserve your mornings for high-value tasks.
• Prefer standing meetings and limit them to the necessary duration.
• Always have an agenda and follow up with a memo.
• Respect communication boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance and create real, honest expectations for when the work is due.

By setting and respecting these boundaries, you can take control of your day, focus on what matters most, and consistently create strategic value.

Let’s connect and share more strategies on maximizing productivity!

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