90-Minute Sprint System

A system for maximizing productivity through unscheduled but structured work blocks, emphasizing focused sprints in specific environments.

Core Philosophy of the Sprint System

• Break day into 90-minute to 2-hour focused work sprints
• Work on the most important or interesting thing in the moment
• Prioritize effectiveness over efficiency
• Focus on one big outcome per day rather than many small tasks

Sprint Structure

• Sprint Duration:

  • 90 minutes of actual focused work
  • Schedule 3 hours to account for "putzing around"
  • Set timers to timeblock the sprint

• Venue Selection:

  • Office: For creative work, presentations, visual tasks
  • Bedroom (Eames chair): For reading and contemplative work
  • Walking: For thinking and processing

Daily Priority System

• Morning routine includes setting "One Big Thing"
• Ask: "What one outcome would make today a win?"
• Everything beyond the one big thing is "gravy"
• Avoid using calendar as a to-do list
• Don't maintain running task lists

Calendar Management

• Keep calendar mostly empty
• Block out sprint times
• Leave plenty of open space for spontaneous opportunities
• Avoid scheduling meetings weeks in advance
• Focus on offense (proactive) vs defense (reactive)

Trade-offs and Requirements

• Not compatible with highly scheduled operational roles
• Works best for makers/creators vs managers
• Requires transition period to implement
• May impact responsiveness to others' requests
• Need to be comfortable with saying no or not responding
• Takes time to transition (can take years to fully implement)