5 Productivity Hacks We Disagree On - With Eric Girard

This episode features a debate between Brian and Eric Girard. There are 5 productivity hacks that these two disagree on. The discussion includes: tasks written on calendar vs to-do list, planning out every minute of the day on your calendar, wake-up times (early vs. late), meditation, and the use of Amazon Subscribe & Save. Throughout the episode, both participants present their opposing viewpoints. Which side do you agree with? What did they miss or not consider?

See the full details and links on the episode's page: https://www.productivitygladiator.com/episodes/5-productivity-hacks-we-disagree-on-with-eric-girard

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References In This Episode

The 10 day meditation course and challenge Brian referred to from Headspace.

Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program information.

Chewy’s Autoship program.

Eric’s Girard Training Solutions organization, and podcast: Management Development Unlocked

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Episode Digest

5 Hacks That Divide These Experts

In a recent episode of the Productivity Gladiator podcast, host Brian squares off against guest Eric Girard on five contentious productivity hacks. Their lively debate highlights how even seasoned professionals can disagree on best practices. Let's break down their arguments:

1. Tasks: On The Calendar vs. On A To-Do List

Brian advocates for keeping tasks on a separate to-do list, arguing that calendars should be reserved for time-specific commitments.

Eric prefers putting tasks directly on his calendar, a habit he's maintained since school.

Key Debate Points: Scalability, handling timeless tasks, and the risk of losing track of items when they're not completed on schedule.

2. Daily Planning: Structured vs. Flexible

Eric plans out every hour of his day for maximum efficiency.

Brian leaves open space in his schedule, valuing flexibility to handle unexpected tasks or opportunities.

The Crux: Does rigid planning boost productivity, or does it create more work through constant rescheduling?

3. Wake-Up Times: Early Bird vs. Night Owl

Eric champions the 5 AM wake-up, embracing the "early bird gets the worm" philosophy.

Brian prefers a later start, arguing for the benefits of evening productivity and social life in the evenings.

Discussion Point: How do these choices impact work-life balance and overall productivity?

4. Meditation: Essential or “Meh”

Eric swears by morning meditation to sharpen his mind for the day ahead.

Brian finds meditation puts him to sleep, reserving it for those 4 AM can't-sleep moments.

The Question: Is meditation a productivity booster or just another task on the to-do list?

5. Amazon Subscribe & Save: Convenience or Hassle

Brian is all-in on Subscribe & Save, praising its convenience and cost savings.

Eric prefers on-demand purchasing, wary of accumulating unnecessary items.

Core Issue: Does automating purchases save time and money, or lead to waste and clutter?

The Takeaway

This debate showcases how personal productivity can be. What works for one expert might be counterproductive for another. As you listen to the episode, consider:

• Which side do you lean towards on each topic?

• What factors in your life influence these preferences?

• Are there additional perspectives or nuances the hosts might have overlooked?

Remember, the hosts are coming at these perspectives having tried both sides and developed their opinion. The best productivity system is the one that works for you. Don't be afraid to experiment and adapt these strategies to fit your unique needs and lifestyle.

Chapters

— Introduction

— The Calendar vs. To-Do List Debate

— Planning Every Hour vs. Leaving Open Space

— Early Riser vs. Late Riser: Workout Preferences

— Meditation: A Tool for Focus or Sleep?

— Amazon Subscribe and Save: Convenience or Clutter?

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Today’s Guest

ERIC GIRARD
CEO, GIRARD TRAINING SOLUTIONS

Eric Girard has over 30 years of experience helping improve the performance of managers and employees. He specializes in the development of new managers, focusing on their successful transition to their new role and on their team management skills. He has a high-energy and engaging facilitation style.

Eric is a passionate, lifelong learner. As a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, he is pursuing the rating of Master Scuba Diver Trainer. When not designing or delivering training, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and twin 14-year-old daughters.

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/ericpgirard

Instagram: instagram.com/eric.p.girard

Website: girardtrainingsolutions.com

Podcast: girardtrainingsolutions.com/podcast

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About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a leader at all levels, I now help others to level-up through my Productivity Gladiator training. Graduates wield time management & life balance superpowers, activate a laser-guided ability to focus & prioritize, and implement a sniper-precise approach to task & email management. If what you’ve seen here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat!

Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.