Bezos Calendar Review Framework

A framework for optimizing your time by identifying which activities truly matter and which can be eliminated, based on Jeff Bezos' calendar review method.

Core Calendar Review Process

• Review prior week's calendar blocks (30-min to 1-hour segments)
• Ask key question: "If I hadn't done this thing, would anything have changed?"
• Cross off activities where nothing would have changed
• Circle activities that had significant impact
• Consistently eliminate recurring activities that get crossed off

Time Value Principles

• Not all hours are created equal
• Some single hours can be worth more than months of other activities
• Time exists on a "power law" basis
• Challenge the assumption that all workday hours have equal value
• Focus on identifying and maximizing "power hour" moments

Implementation Strategy

• Start small with testing dispensable activities
  • Try removing 1 hour of work
  • Expand to half days
  • Monitor impact of removals
• Look for opportunities to:
  • Replace yourself in low-impact meetings
  • Hire others to handle non-critical tasks
  • Create space for high-impact activities

Key Indicators of Success

• No negative impact when activities are removed
• More time available for truly important work
• Better pattern recognition of what actually matters
• Increased focus on high-leverage activities
• Clear distinction between "anchor" activities and dispensable ones

Warning Signs of Low-Value Activities

• Nothing changes when you skip them
• Long delay before anyone notices their absence
• Can be easily delegated without consequence
• No direct impact on key objectives