“Work like hell. I mean you just have to put in 80-to-100-hour weeks every week. [This] improves the odds of success.” – Elon Musk
Have you ever wondered how some people seem to achieve so much more in the same 24 hours we all have? What if the secret to success lies in a strategy as old as chess? In this article, we’ll explore how the timeless game of chess can teach us valuable business lessons about maximizing our time and outpacing the competition.
The Chess Analogy
When two chess players sit down to compete, they both have the same amount of time on the clock. Yet, a savvy player knows they can use their opponent’s thinking time to predict their next move. This principle can be applied to the business world, where the key to success often lies in how we use our time, especially when our competitors are sleeping.
Equal Hours, Different Outcomes
In the real world, whether you’re a prince or a pauper, everyone wakes up to the same number of hours in a day. However, the difference between winners and losers is how they use those hours. Just like in chess, you can leverage your opponent’s time to think and plan your next move. While your competitors are sleeping at 5:00 AM, you can get up early and start taking action.
Maximizing Effort
Elon Musk famously said, “If other people are putting in 40-hour work weeks and you’re putting in 100-hour work weeks, then even if you’re doing the same thing, you know that you will achieve in 4 months what it takes them a year to achieve”. This quote underscores the importance of maximizing your time and effort to outpace your competitors.
Investing in Personal Development
One way to take action while others are thinking about their moves is by investing in yourself through personal development. Jim Carrey once shared that he spent all his time reading personal development books on Oprah. This dedication to self-improvement can give you a significant edge in the business world. You can read books, listen to podcasts, and take early morning appointments to stay ahead.
Early Morning Habits
Successful people often start their day early, making it a point to have their first meeting over coffee in the morning. This habit not only maximizes their productivity but also allows them to connect with other like-minded individuals who are equally driven.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the lesson from chess is clear: while we all have the same number of hours in a day, it’s how we use that time that separates winners from losers. By leveraging your opponent’s time and investing in personal development, you can maximize your productivity and achieve success faster than your competitors. So, the next time you wake up at 5:00 AM, remember that you’re not just starting your day early; you’re gaining an advantage that could make all the difference.
David Walter is an author, speaker, and sales trainer. His claim to fame came from a cold-calling hot steak, during which he set 15 appointments a day for six months straight. He later ran a marketing call center, helping companies make millions. His book is a # 1 Best-seller on Amazon. He is now the VP of Growth at Resonant Technology Partners, a Lyra Technology Group Company.