Whenever I lead workshops on material from my book THE SELF-AWARE LEADER, I dedicate a session to time management. In this important segment, I guide leaders through reviewing and planning how to maximize their most productive hours and structure their week to better align with their goals. Then, I introduce the “sprint/drift” concept, a framework taken from the U.S. Navy for effectively organizing their months and years.
A “sprint” is a focused period that presents a unique opportunity to accelerate progress, tackle critical initiatives, and (since I’m writing this as we enter into Q4) finish strong. This concept aligns with research on goal-setting theory, which suggests that specific and challenging goals lead to higher performance [1]. Setting clear, ambitious objectives and harnessing a sense of urgency can drive significant results in a particular timeframe.
Conversely, the ” drift ” is a period of recovery, reduced pace, celebration, and evaluation (the last part looks more like listening than scorekeeping). The sprint/drift concept draws inspiration from submarine operations, which sprint at higher speeds to reach a desired position, then dial back to drift along at three knots, quieter than the surrounding ocean. They listen and wait, gathering crucial information while waiting… and listening.
Research has shown that periods of intense focus followed by recovery can improve productivity and well-being [2]. By aligning our efforts and concentrating on high-impact activities, we can create a surge of productivity that propels us into the new year with confidence and a strong foundation for future growth.
As we approach the year’s final quarter, let’s consider a 90-day sprint to early December. What can you and your team(s) achieve if they focus their efforts for the next 90 days? It’s important to note that your team members likely feel overwhelmed and stretched. This sprint isn’t about working longer hours (even submarines never sprint so fast that their propellers cavitate, creating noticeable noise). Instead, it’s about working smarter and pursuing a goal or project through a singular focus.
Let’s sprint! By embracing this “Sprint/Drift” principle, we can optimize our productivity, achieve our goals, and maintain a sustainable work rhythm throughout the year.
References:
[1] Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey. American Psychologist, 57(9), 705-717.
[2] Schwartz, T., & McCarthy, C. (2007). Manage your energy, not your time. Harvard Business Review, 85(10), 63-73.