20 key habits highly productive managers swear by
Here’s how to master daily leadership responsibilities without burning out.
What does an effective leader look like? Oftentimes, what comes to mind is an individual who can successfully balance their daily workflow, foster positive team relations, and handle an unforeseen crisis calmly and collectively. But strong leaders have another secret ingredient up their sleeves. They realize how important it is to manage their most valuable resources: time and energy. As a leader, being intentional about where to invest your focus can significantly enhance your productivity.
Below, 20 Fast Company Executive Board members share their insights on other tried-and-true habits every successful executive should practice regularly.
CHECK EMAIL AFTER FINISHING A MORE CONSEQUENTIAL TASK.
Cultivate your strategic ignorance. Each day, I don’t check email until I’ve completed my most consequential task. This way, I’m working on important tasks that merit executive attention instead of the urgent ones. A leader’s productivity is measured by the opportunities seized, not the problems solved. Ignore more things. - Shayne Fitz-Coy, Sabot Family Companies
Extract from: 20 key habits highly productive managers swear by published on FAST COMPANY EXECUTIVE BOARD | 05-14-2025
