Before Breakfast Second Cup: Don't give yourself homework
Jan 18, 2026
Discover strategies to lighten Future You's load! Learn why avoiding post-meeting homework can enhance teamwork. Find out how addressing quick tasks on the spot keeps your to-do list manageable. Hear tips on utilizing one-on-one time for deeper discussions. Empower others by allowing them to take the initiative for follow-ups. It’s perfectly fine to buy time before committing to longer requests. This enlightening talk wraps up with a light-hearted reminder to finish tasks ahead of schedule!
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Episode notes
Do Small Tasks Immediately
- Do fulfill quick requests immediately during the meeting when feasible to remove tasks from your future to-do list.
- Doing the task now puts the ball in someone else's court and frees up your evening.
Late-Night Meeting Follow-Ups
- Laura describes the common scenario of noting meeting follow-ups and only getting to them late in the day when you'd rather be home.
- This illustrates how small unfinished tasks pile up and steal personal time.
Being Helpful Without Creating Homework
- Being a team player doesn't require accepting all future work; you can be strategic to lighten future-you's load.
- Making requests during meetings transfers ownership and reduces your after-hours burden.