People ask me all the time for tips for working from home, specifically how to improve on time management. My response: “have you ever heard of energy management?” 

Psychologist Adam Grant makes the argument that productivity isn’t about time management. It’s about attention (or energy) management. We have X amount of energy per day to spend. The amount we spend can be a bit more or less depending on how well we sleep, eat, exercise—but it’s a finite amount for that day and then you get a fresh supply the next day. If we prioritize the people and projects that matter, it won’t matter how long anything takes. Fair point, Adam.  

I find when coaching executives around the world, most of us are high on talent but sometimes low on discipline. What works for you to help you be more disciplined and use your energy management best? 

How can you be there for the family but still concentrate and focus for extended periods? Richard Wolpert said his system was, if the door is closed, Daddy is in focused working mode, but of course, knock if it’s really urgent. If the door is ajar a bit, more relaxed. 

How can you get through tasks that you don’t want to do, but know you have to get done? Adam Grant suggests that to power through a boring task, do it after a moderately interesting one, and save your most exciting task as a reward for afterward. It’s not about time; it’s about timing.

What are your tips for different energy management challenges? What do you find works—or doesn’t work—for you to optimize your energy management?

Working with a coach in a 1-on-1 setting can help create and implement strategies to make the most of your time and energy. Learn more about LifeHikes® 1:1 Coaching.