The Cost of Constant Availability

In this episode, I explore the personal and professional costs of feeling like you always have to be available. I share a story about checking emails while spending time with my child, showing how this habit drains energy and focus. We discuss why being constantly reachable leads to burnout, lowers work quality, hurts team culture, and blocks meaningful career growth. You'll also hear practical tips to start setting boundaries and reclaiming your focus.

Key Timestamps:

0:05 — Welcome and episode overview

0:21 — Personal story: distracted by email during family time

1:47 — The illusion of productivity vs. real costs

2:17 — Main impacts: burnout, lower quality work, team culture effects

5:13 — The importance of focusing on hard, meaningful problems

8:21 — Practical tips: setting work windows, turning off notifications, creating boundaries

10:06 — Communication protocols and letting go of inbox zero

11:42 — Summary and call to action

Links & Resources:

Listen to more episodes on https://bringbackfocus.substack.com