“I’m just so busy. I don’t have time.” It’s the phrase I hear most often from managers and executives.
They want to coach their people, have better one-on-ones, and think strategically, but the hours disappear before they even get to the important work.
Here’s the truth: everyone gets the same amount of time in a day. The difference between average and exceptional leaders isn’t time, it’s focus.
If you care about time management, this week’s newsletter is for you.
I. Leaders don’t have a time problem, they have a focus problem.
What it means:
Too many leaders spread themselves thin, giving equal attention to what’s urgent and what’s important. They let their inboxes and calendars dictate their day. They are reactive instead of proactive.
Time management isn’t about doing more. It’s about directing your best energy and attention toward what truly moves the mission forward.
II. You can’t fight every fire and still move forward
What it means:
Every leader faces daily fire drills. It could be an upset client, a broken process, or a performance issue. It’s not if a problem needs to be solved, it’s deciding which one to solve first.
Not every problem deserves your immediate attention. Judgment, not reaction, separates good leaders from great ones. Part of your job is to decide which fires to let burn.
III. What you celebrate expands.
What it means:
At the end of each day, take five minutes to reflect and write down what you accomplished. Celebrate the wins, no matter how small they seem.
Reflection reinforces focus, and focus creates momentum. When you have positive momentum, it trains your brain to recognize progress instead of your lack of perfection.
Use your gifts,
John Eades
CEO | LearnLoft | The Sales Infrastructure
P.S. I am preparing to deliver a keynote and two workshops to 450 professionals in Detroit, Michigan, on Monday for a company-wide event. I am excited to unveil The Teamwork Advantage and along with The Leadership Lens. I am not immune to nerves or pressure, so keep me in your thoughts and prayers! And if you’re in Detroit, let me know the best places to eat.
The Optimistic Outlook (Newsletter)
The Optimistic Outlook is a daily newsletter designed to remind you to focus on the bright side, one day at a time. Join 975+ leaders who are already improving their Optimistic Outlook.
The Optimistic Outlook is now available wherever you listen to podcasts. Channel your inner John Eades and make your kids listen to it, then read it aloud to work on their minds and communication skills.
The Talent Cross Matrix (Video)
Most leaders overvalue talent and overlook character.
They focus on ability, skills, and results, but ignore whether a teammate is selfish or selfless.
That’s a mistake.
Talent absolutely matters. But talent and selfishness are dangerous for a team. Watch this short video where I explain the Talent Cross Matrix and how you can use it to evaluate and grow your team.
What quadrant do you think most people on your team fall into?
Here Are Some Ways We Could Partner:
Customized Leadership Development Programs: Bring the Accelerate Leadership Program or Catalyst for Growth Program in-house for a customized experience for your team members. Programs include virtual or in-person instructor-led training, a Leadership Growth Plan, and group coaching to ensure real-world mastery.
1:1 Coaching: Work 1-on-1 with me or one of our certified coaches to achieve your goals, strengthen critical skills, and address your most pressing challenges. This 6-month program focuses on mindset and execution for tangible, lasting outcomes. Show me more
Speaking: We are now booking keynotes for the fall of 2025 and early 2026. John’s new keynote, “The Teamwork Advantage,” has been a hit for organizations. Hit reply on this note, or check out some of our recent talks here.
