As an entrepreneur, you have that gadget, habit, app, or book that makes your work easier, and motivates you to do more and that’s what we refer to as a CEO Hack. It helps you achieve maximum productivity and stick to your goals regardless of the hurdles you face as an entrepreneur. For instance, it could be a pro tip on managing employees to make the workplace a conducive environment for everyone. Maybe it’s an app that you have that helps you plan and execute tasks on time. It could also be a book that you read and it brings ideas your way on how to scale your business. The list goes on.
We asked entrepreneurs about their favorite CEO hacks and here are the responses:
#1- Consistent and intentional goal-setting
One of the most essential habits that has contributed to my success as a CEO is consistent and intentional goal-setting – both for myself and for my company. Every week, I intentionally set aside time to reflect on the past week, what we have accomplished, and where we fell short. My technique is to write these goals down and keep them visible throughout the week, and this simple habit is incredibly helpful in keeping myself and my team focused and on track towards our vision. “What gets measured, gets done” is a saying that really resonates with me and has proven true time and time again.
Thanks to Eric Eng, AdmissionSight!
#2- Spending time in nature
One of my most cherished CEO hacks that significantly contributes to my success is spending time in nature, particularly on my farm in Brazil. Working in the fields alongside my employees, I find a unique blend of peace and inspiration. It's an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world, which is crucial given the nature of my business, and reconnect with the environment. It reminds me that every member of my organization, like every element of nature, plays a vital role in the larger ecosystem of our business.
Thanks to Paul Mario Vratusha, D-Studio Consulting!
#3 Taking a long walk, getting into nature
One of my favorite hacks that I've found invaluable is starting each day by planning out my top 3 priorities. This simple morning habit focuses me right away on the very vital things that will have an outsized impact on the success of my company. Another great resource is the Trello app. But if I had to choose my favorite CEO “power tool”, it would be taking a long walk, getting into nature allows invaluable time for creative strategic thinking and helps me return to the office recharged, with fresh inspiration that drives innovative solutions. I also surround myself with world-class people that I trust so much and make space to hear all voices.
Thanks to Justin Crabbe, The Jettly Flight!
#4- Challenge every meeting time slot
I am consistently invited to various meetings, whether with colleagues or suppliers. Often, these invitations automatically block out an hour or even more in my calendar. When faced with an hour-long meeting, I began pushing back, expressing my commitment to 30 or 45 minutes and suggesting adjustments to the invitation. Surprisingly, I found that my meetings continued to yield the desired outcomes, but in significantly less time. Now, whenever I receive a calendar invite, I consistently trim the allocated time and still manage to accomplish the intended results. In reflecting on this practice, I estimate that in 2023 alone, I saved approximately 180 hours.
Thanks to Matt Collingwood, VIQU IT Recruitment!
#5- Morning routine
My morning routine takes one hour exactly, and I rise at 5am every day to do it. I do a ten-minute guided meditation. I write three pages in my journal and then I write down three things I am grateful for in my gratitude journal. I do 30 minutes of exercise – either yoga focusing on sun salutations, or a jog and I listen to my current audible self-help or inspirational book while I do it. At 5.55am I write a list of my top three must accomplish things in the day and seven would be good to complete tasks. I win the morning and it sets me up to win the day. A morning routine that becomes second nature provides structure and a comforting and inspiring ritual to start the day.
Thanks to Donna Groves, Comacon Pty Ltd!
#6- Jots down any ideas immediately
I always make sure that I always write down or take note of any ideas that pop up in my mind. Some of them might be random, but most contain at least a glimmer of something interesting to be done. When I record my thoughts and ideas, I notice that I externalize my thinking process– so that it’s easier for me to clarify, organize, and develop them more effectively. This process enhances my problem-solving skills, creativity, and memory retention. It also creates a valuable reference for future decision-making and a greater capacity to innovate.
Thanks to Andre Oentoro, Breadnbeyond!
#7- Book- Tell your clients where to go!
One of the critical resources that has contributed significantly to my success is the book “Tell Your Clients Where to Go! A Practical Guide to Providing Passionate Client Leadership” by Todd Sebastian. This book is an invaluable guide for any entrepreneur looking to excel in client management and leadership. The strategies outlined in this book have been instrumental in enhancing our agency's client satisfaction and driving better results.
Thanks to Cody Jensen, Searchbloom!
#8- Maintaining a strong network of mentors
One of the essential habits that has significantly contributed to my success is maintaining a strong network of mentors. Having experienced individuals who can provide guidance, share insights, and offer valuable feedback has been invaluable throughout my career. Regularly seeking advice from these mentors and learning from their experiences has helped me make informed decisions and navigate challenges effectively. This practice of seeking mentorship has enhanced my personal growth and positively impacted the success of my e-commerce business.
Thanks to Jordan Adair, ShirtMax!
#9 – Habit of continuous learning
One of the critical resources that has contributed significantly to my success as a CEO is the habit of continuous learning. I believe that no matter how experienced or accomplished one becomes, there is always more to discover and absorb. Reading industry publications, engaging in discussions with colleagues, and seeking out the wisdom of seasoned mentors have been invaluable sources of knowledge and inspiration for me.
Thanks to Cort Adair, The Adair Group!