Member-only story
Here’s What The Most Productive Hour Of Your Week Looks Like
What can you learn about becoming more effective at work from one of the most accomplished U.S. secretaries of state in recent times?
George Schultz was secretary of state under President Ronald Reagan for six and a half years.
He helped implement foreign policy that led to the end of the Cold War and the development of better relationships between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region.
In 1989, Reagan awarded Schultz the Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civilian honor.
His secret?
Every Friday afternoon, Schultz set aside one hour for reflecting on problems of state and strategies.
New York Times journalist David Leonhardt reported this hour enabled Schultz to focus on his priorities without getting pulled into daily crises.
It’s relatively easy to cultivate your own Schultz-hour.
Book One Hour A Week Into Your Calendar
Your calendar is a ledger of how you’re spending your time.
A vague commitment to reflect on work or your business isn’t enough. It’s fine to set an intention Monday morning, but you must honor it come Friday or Sunday.