Unlock Success with a Simple Weekend Habit, Reveals Billionaire Eric Schmidt
Could a mere few hours of quiet reflection on weekends change your professional life? According to Eric Schmidt, the former Google CEO and Silicon Valley titan, the answer is a resounding yes. While most might assume that Schmidt’s success stems from countless hours of grind, he actually attributes it to a deceptively simple weekend habit instilled in him by the legendary Bill Campbell.
The Practice of Reflective Writing
Schmidt insists that this habit starts by setting aside a few hours each weekend for undisturbed reflection with a pen and paper. No digital distractions allowed. The goal is to introspectively assess the past week’s activities and plan for the upcoming one, identifying missed opportunities, forgotten tasks, and areas for improvement.
From Late-Night Sessions to Meaningful Downtime
Instead of adhering to an exhausting schedule of 80-hour workweeks, Schmidt found that about 63 hours a week hit his productivity sweet spot. “You reach a point of diminishing returns,” Schmidt explains, emphasizing that excessive work can erode results rather than improve them.
Broad Applications Beyond the Executive Office
This invaluable practice isn’t exclusive to corporate executives. In a world overwhelmed by digital distractions, anyone—from junior staff to seasoned engineers—can benefit. “Attention is a currency in today’s noisy world,” Schmidt aptly states. The dedicated time not only helps identify potential issues early but also ensures focus remains on what’s truly important.
The Power of Writing for Clarity
Schmidt’s mantra is simply, “writing things down equals clarity.” This clarity, he argues, is what makes the great leaders effective, not just busy. By adopting this reflection habit, you can ensure that your next week is better organized and more purposeful.
According to Fortune, the practice of reflective writing has been praised by industry leaders for its impact and effectiveness. As you consider your weekend plans, remember Schmidt’s advice: taking these moments to pause and reflect might just be the catalyst to enhancing your professional journey.
Reflecting on Schmidt’s wisdom, perhaps the next time you plan your weekend, you might carve out that quiet moment to think, create, and grow.
