July 2025
How are you protecting time for focused work, MOB, professional development and strategic thinking?
Time is one of our most valuable resources—yet it’s often stretched thin by back-to-back meetings and constant responsiveness. As we begin summer break, find time to focus on your top priorities, professional development and strategic thinking. Use your calendar to help you focus, prevent burnout, and create space for professional growth. Creating work blocks is also a great way to normalize taking time off and respecting others’ time.
In your 1:1:
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Talk about how you're currently using your calendar.
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Discuss barriers to setting (or respecting) focus time.
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Share upcoming plans for rest or vacation.
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Explore opportunities to carve out space for strategic thinking or skill-building.
Managers: Normalize protecting time and declining or delegating meetings. Review calendars together and help eliminate unnecessary meetings or busywork. If they’re overloaded, remove blockers or help them reprioritize.
Resources
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📘 Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky
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🧰 Google Calendar Tip: How to set and protect Focus Time
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🎧 Podcast: The Importance of Time Off – HBR IdeaCast
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📝 Article: Why You Need a “Thinking Day” Every Week – Forbes
Additional Check-in Questions:
🧠 AI Awareness
What have you heard or read recently about AI? Have you tried anything new with AI in your role? How is AI impacting your day-to-day work?
🔐 Security Pulse
What have you heard or read recently about cybersecurity? Are there any new security practices you are more mindful of?
☘️Campus Updates
Are there any campus communications that you would like clarity on? Have you heard anything interesting or important from across the University? Is there a program or project you think IT@ND should be aware of?