The Importance of 'No Meetings Days' in the Workplace


What did the employee say when his boss asked him how he managed to get so much done on “No Meetings Day”? “I guess I was just meeting my deadlines!”

With endless meetings, emails, and distractions, it can be difficult to focus and get things done. That’s why companies should promote a Get $#!t Done Day - a day dedicated to no meetings, no interruptions, and maximum productivity.

Studies have shown that interruptions can have a major impact on productivity. According to a study by the University of California, Irvine it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to get back on track after an interruption. That’s a lot of time wasted!

Of course, some may argue that taking a day off from meetings and other distractions is not feasible in today’s world. But I would argue that it’s precisely because of such demands that such a day is needed. In fact, many companies have already implemented similar policies with great success.

Asana has a policy known as No Meeting Wednesdays (NMW) where everyone knows not to schedule meetings on Wednesdays, unless absolutely necessary. Basecamp famously has their Work Can Wait feature, where employees are encouraged to focus solely on their work without interruptions. Similarly, Buffer, a social media management company, where employees are given the opportunity to work without distractions.

Here’s why every company should adopt this concept:

Increased focus & productivity: Without the distractions of meetings and emails, employees can focus on completing important tasks and projects. This can lead to improved accuracy and higher quality work. With a Get $#!t Done Day, employees are able to make the most of their time and increase productivity. This can lead to greater efficiency and a more productive workforce.

Better time management: By dedicating a specific day (or two) per week to getting things done, employees can manage their time more effectively and avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed.

Improved morale: Allowing employees to have a day dedicated to getting things done can boost morale and increase motivation. It can also promote a sense of ownership and accountability, as employees are able to take charge of their own workload.

Better communication: By dedicating a specific day to getting things done, companies can improve communication by reducing the number of meetings and emails. This can lead to more focused and effective communication.

Get $#!t Done Days can be a game-changer for companies looking to improve productivity and efficiency. By implementing a policy that facilitates this, companies can help employees stay focused and productive, while also promoting a healthier work-life balance. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on both employee well-being and the bottom line.

So, why not give it a try and see the results for yourself?