3-Hour Self-Time Principle

Jesse Itzler shares a story about learning an important life principle from a wealthy client during his time running Marquis Jet.

"When I was around 30 years old running Marquis Jet, I had no business experience or relationship with money. We were flying 3,000 of the who's who - CEOs, athletes, entertainers. I became curious and would ask them about their lives whenever I had a chance at the airport.

I sat down with this incredibly wealthy man named James. I asked him, 'How do you live rich?' He told me about his daily routines, where he vacations, what he does with his money, even how much gold he has buried in his backyard. But one thing really stuck with me - he said 'I take 3 hours a day for myself.'

I told him I could never do that, but he explained it was cumulative - 30 minutes of sun in the morning, time at lunch to read, go for a walk, work out. He explained that if you 'check the you box,' you show up as a better parent, husband, CEO, boss, and employee. You don't resent your partner for taking away time from things you want to do.

Right after that meal, I started taking 2-3 hours a day for myself. I thought, 'It works for him - I'm not going to wait until I have a bazillion dollars, I'm going to do it now.' Being time-rich doesn't mean you have to be wealthy. You just have to be organized, scheduled, and prioritize yourself."