Focus

From time to time, I find it better to deliver a message via email. In almost every case, I am a firm believer that important messages should come in person, face-to-face (or, if you find yourself working from home due to a pandemic, then by video chat). But this morning, I wanted to share some thoughts with the leadership team about how best to think about using time. It’s always a good lesson, but it occurred to me that as schedules have gotten flipped all around, it might be a good reminder.

Hello, LT!

I wanted to share something with you all this morning in the hopes that it helps you think through how you’re spending your time these days.

I believe that the most precious commodity that we have is our time. We all get the same amount of it, and how we spend that time will tie directly to the things we accomplish.

As leaders, we all have non-variable time in our schedules—predictable scheduled time that we plan and control. The time is put to necessary tasks that must happen, regardless of how many other things are coming your way. It’s consistent and always going to be a part of your time as a leader.

Then there’s our flexible or variable time, which lets us react to and help solve problems.

Non-variable focus areas

#1—Where is the company headed?

Whether you oversee a company, a team, or another person, a leader is responsible for clearly and consistently setting the company vision. While your goal is for everyone to be aware of and embody this objective, it’s your job to set the course.

#2—Are you on track or does the business need to be course-corrected?

Once the Vision/Purpose/Culture has been set, which ours has through our PVTV, it’s your job as the leader to continually check in on them and help people to re-center when needed. Remember, you are steering the ship. When it goes off course (and it always will), it is your job to reorient and get everyone back on track.

#3—Is the team motivated?

Your job is to help motivate the team. Always.

Variable focus areas

#1—Where are you most needed right now?

At any given time, a leader must be flexible (and their schedule must allow for this versatility) to react and help the company or the team through its current challenges. Too many leaders are so rigid with their time that they cannot effectively shift their priorities when needed. Cut down on those non-essential meetings.

#2—What do you do best?

Each of us has a few superpowers, and great leaders figure out what their superpowers are and spend as much time as they can using them to help the company. It’s as necessary to know what you’re not great at and to delegate that work so you can spend time where you thrive. Delegation is key.

#3—Are you available to solve problems?

There should always be open gaps in your calendar. A fully booked leader is too busy to support the team with needs as they arise. Make sure you’re keeping time for the “Hey, I need some advice,” kind of interactions. Your team, especially now, needs the ability to grab you from time to time.

Please reach out if there is anything I can do to help you. (I’ve left some time open on my calendar.) And remember to look to each other for answers and support as well!

Best,

Will

Key point: Think about your time as a leader. Are you spending it in the right areas? Are you available for your team when they need you? This will be different for everyone, but recognizing how you spend your time is critical to how well you lead.