Today I started experimenting with a new form of time management based on a reduction in hours. Essentially I only need to work 5 hours, from 9.30 to 14.30, but this 5 hour stint requires the kind of intense concentration that is brought to bear during a chess game. I have to say that the first day has been an unqualified success, I managed to finish a huge chunk of work that was well overdue.
The reason that this may work well for me is that it’s the same routine as in a chess tournament, an intense ‘playing session’ of around 5 hours and the rest of the day off. I must admit that the thought of working 8 or more hours in a day somewhat dampens my enthusiasm to ever get started, but knowing that I’ll be free by mid afternoon changes this completely. There are some other rules, for example the phone must be switched off and no breaks are permitted. But I find both of these conditions quite agreeable.
There is a subplot to this idea in that I want to start trading again in the new year, but only trade a certain part of the day. The 09.30 to 14.30 schedule will allow me to trade the US pre open, buy or sell the open or place limit orders. I believe it should be possible to operate like this, the things I want to avoid being the feeling that I’m obliged to watch the markets whilst spending time with junior, or being unable to go out in the evening and relax. Of course another important factor in this is NOT TO HAVE TOO MUCH LEVERAGE! Heavy leverage is one sure way to develop nervous ticks and insomnia.
I’m often mocked for only working 4.5 hours a day, but find I get more done in my strict 4.5 hours than most colleagues do in a straight 8 hour day.
9-9.45: Work
9.45-10: Rest
10-10.45: Work
10.45-11: Rest
11-11.45: Work
11.45-1: Lunch
1-1.45: Work
2.45-3: Rest
3-3.45: Work
3.45-4: Rest
4-4.45: Work
4.45: Home
During rest period I get a coffee, read the paper (anything away from the computer). At lunch I play chess or read.
Work/Life balance is one of the hardest things to get right – possible because it is different for each person. As long as you find a way that suits you, you should stick to it!
Mike
By: mq1982 on November 10, 2008
at 3:36 pm
Mike,
Thanks for the reassurance. I must say that the new routine (start work at 9.30am, finish at 2.30pm) is going amazingly well, I’ve finished a lot of things that needed doing.
The one time I had a regular job, I was shocked at how everyone seemed to go from chatting to meetings to telphone calls with very few periods of silent concentration. The company concerned ultimately went bankrupt (after I left) but I understand that this kind of working pattern isn’t too far from the norm.
Nigel
By: ndavies64 on November 10, 2008
at 4:47 pm