In 2009, Paul Graham coined the difference between a maker and a manager schedule in a blog post.
In the world of work, these schedules are quite distinct.
The manager schedule is the more traditional schedule seen in corporate environments. Managers typically have a set schedule of meetings, calls, and appointments throughout the day. They are responsible for overseeing teams, managing projects, and making decisions. Their days are often broken up into 30-minute or 1-hour increments, with little time for deep focus on any one task.
On the other hand, the maker schedule is more flexible and allows for uninterrupted periods of deep work (to use a Cal Newport term). Makers are those who create things. The roles could be a designer, strategist, writer, programmer, or engineer. They require longer periods of focused work to get into a state of flow and produce high-quality output. Makers may work best by working on a single project for several hours or even an entire day without interruptions.
In many organizations today, the manager schedule rules and makers struggle to find time to “make” during regular business hours. This means the making is often happening in the margins or after work. The downward spiral that can occur is the work suffering and the creativity diminishing.
My Perspective
I think many have a bit of both the maker and the manager in their role and schedule.
The dance to balance time alone and time with others can be tricky.
Conversations can be key to figuring out solutions.
Looking at the calendar and protecting time for the makers can propel the business forward.
While it may feel counterintuitive to managers to meet less and focus more, this is vital for makers.
Your Turn
Is your role a manager, a maker, or a blend of both?
If you are a maker, do you feel you have the time you need in your schedule to focus?
Could you schedule some time with the team to discuss and look for solutions?