Why Successful People Spend 10 Hours A Week On “Compound Time”

Why Successful People Spend 10 Hours A Week On “Compound Time”

In today's fast-paced world, it seems like everyone is constantly on the go, trying to cram as much as possible into their busy schedules. However, successful people understand the importance of slowing down, working less, and investing in activities that have long-term value. This concept, known as "compound time," is the key to achieving greater knowledge, creativity, and energy.

One of the most effective ways to make use of compound time is through journaling. Keeping a journal allows us to reflect on our thoughts and experiences, helping to enhance our metacognitive thinking - our awareness of our own thoughts. This practice was favored by Albert Einstein, who would return home from his office, have lunch, take a nap, and then wake up with a cup of tea to start his afternoon. By taking this time to rest and reflect, Einstein was able to approach complex topics with a fresh perspective, ultimately leading to groundbreaking discoveries.

Another powerful tool in the realm of compound time is the act of walking. Studies have shown that just 15 minutes of walking per day can have a profound impact on our cognitive abilities. It increases learning, memory, awareness, creativity, and productivity. Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche believed that it was only ideas gained from walking that held true worth. So, why not incorporate a short walk into your daily routine and see the wonders it can work?

Reading is another activity that successful individuals prioritize in their compound time. Many great minds throughout history, including Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and JFK, were all avid readers. Books offer a wealth of knowledge and insights, compressing a lifetime's worth of impactful information into just a few hours of our time. Reading not only improves memory but also increases empathy and helps to alleviate stress. So, pick up a book and dive into the world of knowledge and imagination.

Furthermore, conversation partners can lead to surprising breakthroughs. Author and essayist Joshua Shenk argues that creativity is a social phenomenon rather than an individual one. Collaborating with others and engaging in meaningful conversations can spark new ideas and perspectives. It is through these interactions that we can find the essence of innovation and unlock our creative potential.

Taking inspiration from Shonda Rhimes' "Year of Yes," where she challenged herself to say yes to everything that scared her, we should be open to experimentation and new experiences. Legendary management consultant Peter Drucker maintained a habit of writing down his expectations and comparing them to the actual results several months later. This habit of self-reflection allowed him to learn from his mistakes and make better decisions in the future. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make, the better." So, embrace the unknown and be willing to take risks.

Evergreen, an organization that believes in the power of learning and knowledge, emphasizes the importance of thoroughly understanding important concepts. In a world where information is constantly recycled and repackaged for quick consumption, Evergreen aims to organize the internet's vast information for personal use. They recognize that true understanding comes from focused and deliberate learning, not from scattered and disorganized consumption. By investing time in learning the important things thoroughly, we can gain the knowledge we need to make a meaningful impact.

In conclusion, compound time is the secret weapon of successful individuals. By dedicating time to activities that create long-term value, such as journaling, walking, reading, engaging in meaningful conversations, and embracing experimentation, we can enhance our knowledge, creativity, and energy. So, let's slow down, work less, and make the most of our compound time. Remember, "Intellectual capital will always trump financial capital."