Make Time by Jake Knapp & John Zeratsky

Summary

Make Time by Jake Knapp & John Zeratsky offers readers a practical framework to regain control over their attention and schedule in a world dominated by distractions and busyness. By focusing on a single daily highlight, proactively managing energy, and designing routines, the authors help readers create more meaningful and productive days. The book delivers actionable strategies supported by personal anecdotes and scientific research, making it accessible and impactful for a broad audience. It reframes productivity as conscious choice rather than endless efficiency, emphasizing quality of time over quantity.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Focus on a daily 'Highlight'—choose one task or event to prioritize each day, ensuring your most important work gets your best attention.

2. Reduce distractions—actively design your environment and habits to minimize interruptions from devices, notifications, and unnecessary meetings.

3. Invest in your energy—prioritize sleep, nutrition, movement, and mental breaks so you can perform at your best and sustain long-term productivity.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 2018

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 88

Practical Examples

1. Choose a Daily Highlight

   Each morning, pick one activity—a work task, family time, learning moment—that you want to 'win' for that day. This helps avoid overwhelm and channels your effort into what matters most, making each day purposeful and satisfying.

2. Schedule Email and Message Checks

   Instead of constantly checking emails and messages, set specific times for this activity. This 'Batch the Inbox' strategy greatly reduces constant context-switching and distraction, helping you stay focused on your main priority.

3. Make Your Phone a 'Distraction-Free' Device

   Disable notifications, delete addictive apps, or use 'Do Not Disturb' mode. By making your phone boring, you reclaim attention and reduce automatic checking behaviors, freeing up time for more valuable pursuits.

4. Set Boundaries with Calendar Events

   Block personal time on your calendar for your highlight or deep work. This not only signals to others that you're unavailable, but also reinforces your commitment to focused time.

5. Take Real Breaks

   Integrate deliberate, screen-free breaks throughout the day to recharge. Whether it's a walk, quick workout, or meditation, these breaks help restore energy and break the cycle of passive distractions.

6. Use the 10-Minute Timer

   When procrastinating a big task, set a timer for just ten minutes and commit to starting. Often, the hardest part is getting going; this approach lowers the barrier and builds momentum.

7. Simplify Meetings

   Politely decline unnecessary meetings or request an agenda in advance. This forces clarity and ensures every meeting you attend is relevant, saving hours each week.

8. Prepare Food in Advance

   Batch-cook healthy meals or snacks to eliminate decision fatigue and unhealthy eating choices during busy periods. This supports sustained energy and focus.

9. Create a Shutdown Ritual

   End each workday with a short routine—review successes, update tomorrow's highlight, and close your devices. This creates closure and mental separation from work, enhancing relaxation and sleep.