If You Struggle with Focus, Try My Productivity System

Productivity is defined as the amount of money earned for time invested, and hinges on effectively managing one's schedule. There are two primary time management styles: the manager's schedule, characterized by many short, filled time slots, and the maker's schedule, which requires large, uninterrupted blocks for deep work. Managers thrive on meetings and coordination, while makers need open, unscheduled time to create and innovate. Managers should understand the disproportionate cost of meetings on a maker's productivity, and makers should communicate their needs and set boundaries. Organizations should implement policies that protect maker time, such as mandated quiet periods, and recognize the value of a maker's "no" to meeting requests. Alex shares his own calendar as an example, and advocates for relinquishing control by empowering teams.