Kevin O'Leary's Productivity Hack from Steve Jobs

Investor Kevin O'Leary credits his daily efficiency to a goal-setting strategy he adopted from Steve Jobs. The technique involves identifying three primary objectives each day and blocking out distractions to ensure their completion.

O'Leary first observed this method while working alongside the Apple founder in the mid-1990s. Today, he applies a strict 70/30 ratio to his schedule, dedicating the majority of his energy to his top priorities while managing inevitable interruptions. He also shared that he has stopped attempting to manage his overflowing email inbox, viewing it as a major distraction that prevents him from achieving his daily goals.

The productivity method originated during Kevin O'Leary's time working with Steve Jobs in the mid-1990s. During this period, O'Leary's company, The Learning Company, collaborated with Apple to introduce the Mac computer to schools.

Through this collaboration, O'Leary observed that Jobs believed in executing three specific tasks every single day. O'Leary adopted this philosophy, noting that Jobs emphasized the importance of these three items above all else. This experience laid the foundation for O'Leary's current daily routine.

O'Leary strictly follows a ratio he describes as 70% signal and 30% noise. The 'signal' represents the three critical tasks he commits to completing each day. The 'noise' encompasses everything else that might distract him from those goals.

He stated that he does not allow anything to interfere with his schedule until those three things are done. This disciplined approach ensures that high-priority items are never overshadowed by less important interruptions. By defining his priorities so clearly, O'Leary maintains focus regardless of external pressures.

One of the three mandatory tasks Kevin O'Leary completes daily is physical exercise. He wakes up at 5 a.m. every morning and works out for over an hour, typically biking approximately 12 miles.

O'Leary described this exercise as a necessity, stating that 'bad things happen' if he skips it. This non-negotiable habit serves as the foundation of his daily 'signal,' ensuring he starts the day with a completed priority before moving on to business matters.

On the 'noise' side of the equation, Kevin O'Leary identified his overflowing email inbox as a significant distraction. He revealed that he receives between 2,000 and 4,000 emails per day.

Due to the overwhelming volume, O'Leary has stopped trying to manage his email entirely. He explained that despite trying various systems to filter out the 'crap,' his address has spread too widely over the years. Consequently, he views the constant stream of emails as 'garbage' and no longer attempts to address them, choosing instead to focus on his three main goals.

He noted that in his career as an investor, there is no distinction between holidays and workdays. He emphasized that success depends entirely on how one chooses to utilize their time.