Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day

by Jake Knapp

Make Time is a framework for choosing what you want to focus on, building the energy to do it, and breaking the default cycle so that you can start being more intentional about the way you live your life. Even if you don’t completely control your own schedule—and few of us do—you absolutely can control your attention.

Being more productive didn’t mean I was doing the most important work; it only meant I was reacting to other people’s priorities faster.

something magic happens when you start the day with one high-priority goal.

The first step is choosing a single highlight to prioritize in your day. Next, you’ll employ specific tactics to stay laser-focused on that highlight—we’ll offer a menu of tricks to beat distraction in an always-connected world. Throughout the day, you’ll build energy so you can stay in control of your time and attention. Finally, you’ll reflect on the day with a few simple notes.

The goal is not monastic vows but a workable and flexible set of habits.

The third strategy focuses on joy: When I reflect on today, what will bring me the most joy?

You’ll have off days and off weeks, and that’s fine. You can restart your experiments at any time, and you can do as much or as little as fits in your life.

even if lots of things didn’t go your way, your hard work of making time still paid off with a moment you’re grateful for.