We are planning our calendar for our upcoming Focus Day. What does the actual run-of-the-show look like from morning to evening, and how do we prepare our team for the mental fatigue?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

A typical session day is an intense, ten-hour commitment. We start at 8:00 AM sharp and run until approximately 5:00 PM. I ask that your leadership team arrives with their minds completely clear of daily operational distractions. This means laptops and mobile phones are zipped away in bags, only to be checked during our scheduled morning, lunch, and afternoon breaks.

The day is structured to maximize collaboration and focus. We begin with a check-in to get everyone in the room and focused. We then review your previous quarter's performance and accountability metrics. The bulk of our afternoon is spent in the IDS® portion of the day, where we identify, discuss, and solve the most critical issues facing your company. We conclude by setting your Rocks for the next ninety days and rating the session to ensure we delivered maximum value.

To prepare for the mental fatigue, you must treat the day like an athletic event. Ensure your team is well-rested and that you have high-quality food and hydration available in the room. Around 3:00 PM, most teams hit a mental wall. This is normal and is actually when some of our biggest breakthroughs occur. I will manage the energy of the room, insert breaks when necessary, and keep the discussions moving forward so you do not get bogged down in circular debates.