Leadership in the IT consulting world demands a delicate balance of strategic vision, technical expertise, and the ability to nurture both personal growth and team dynamics. As the CEO of an IT consulting firm, my daily routine reflects this multifaceted role, combining rigorous time management with a clear sense of priorities. Here’s a glimpse into how I manage my day, striking a balance between development and leadership, and ensuring that neither aspect of my responsibilities is neglected.
5:00 AM: The Early Start
My day begins at 5:00 AM—a habit that has become indispensable for achieving clarity and focus. The quiet solitude of the early morning allows me to prepare mentally for the challenges ahead. A two-hour walk, covering 10km, forms the cornerstone of my routine. This isn’t just physical exercise; it’s a mental reset. During this time, I map out priorities, solve lingering problems, and mentally rehearse key meetings and decisions. It’s incredible how much clarity a brisk walk can provide—solutions to complex challenges often crystallize when the body is active, and the mind is free to wander.
7:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Strategic Leadership and Meetings
By 7:00 AM, I shift gears into leadership mode. My mornings are dedicated to meetings with my team, clients, and stakeholders. These sessions are where strategic alignment happens. Whether it’s discussing the progress of current projects, brainstorming innovative ideas, or resolving critical issues, this time is all about communication and collaboration. I firmly believe that effective meetings set the tone for the day, ensuring everyone is on the same page and moving toward shared goals.
As a CEO, these interactions go beyond surface-level discussions. They’re an opportunity to motivate my team, identify roadblocks, and provide the guidance needed to maintain momentum. By scheduling these meetings early, I ensure that my team’s day begins with clarity and direction, enabling them to work independently and productively.
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Diving Into Development
While my role as a leader is critical, my roots as a developer remain an essential part of my identity. From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, I immerse myself in hands-on development work. This uninterrupted block of time is sacred; it’s when I roll up my sleeves and engage with the technical side of our projects.
Whether it’s coding a critical feature, debugging issues, or designing system architectures, this period allows me to stay connected to the work that initially inspired my career in technology. It’s also an opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating to my team the importance of precision, creativity, and persistence in problem-solving. Maintaining my technical skills ensures that I can bridge the gap between strategic decisions and their practical implementation, fostering trust and credibility within my team.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Research, Reviews, and One-on-One Sessions
The latter part of my workday shifts toward innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. From 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, I dedicate time to research and development (R&D), code reviews, one-on-one sessions with team members, and personal studies. This is the period where I explore emerging technologies, analyze market trends, and evaluate how our firm can stay ahead of the curve.
Code reviews are a crucial aspect of this routine, providing an opportunity to mentor junior developers, ensure quality, and uphold our technical standards. The one-on-one sessions are particularly valuable for building stronger relationships within the team, understanding individual challenges, and offering tailored guidance. Simultaneously, participating in mastermind groups enriches my perspective, allowing me to exchange ideas with like-minded professionals and refine my strategies. This mix of learning, reviewing, and collaborating fuels my growth and keeps me grounded in best practices while fostering an innovative mindset within the organization.
6:00 PM Onward: Family and Personal Time
After a productive day, I transition into a different kind of leadership—being present for my family. From 6:00 PM onward, it’s all about personal connections. Spending quality time with my loved ones not only strengthens my relationships but also serves as a reminder of the importance of balance. This downtime is essential for recharging and maintaining a sense of perspective. It’s a chance to unwind, share stories, and enjoy life outside of the professional sphere.
Lessons Learned from Balancing Roles
Balancing development and leadership is not without its challenges. The dual responsibilities of steering a company and staying technically adept can be overwhelming. However, through disciplined time management and a clear understanding of priorities, it’s possible to excel in both areas.
Here are a few insights that have shaped my approach:
- Structure and Routine Are Key: A well-structured day ensures that no aspect of my responsibilities is overlooked. By dedicating specific time blocks to different activities, I can focus deeply without distractions.
- Health Fuels Productivity: Physical activity, like my morning walk, is not just about fitness. It enhances mental clarity, reduces stress, and prepares me for the day ahead. Investing in health pays dividends in productivity and longevity.
- Hands-On Leadership Builds Trust: Staying engaged with development work strengthens my connection with the team. It shows that I understand their challenges firsthand and that I’m committed to delivering high-quality solutions.
- Continuous Learning Is Non-Negotiable: The tech landscape evolves rapidly, making lifelong learning essential. By dedicating time to R&D and mastermind sessions, I stay informed and ready to adapt to change.
- Balance Is a Journey: Finding harmony between work and personal life requires ongoing effort and adjustments. Family time and personal interests are not just add-ons; they’re integral to sustaining long-term success.
Conclusion
Balancing development and leadership as a consulting CEO is a dynamic and rewarding challenge. Each day offers an opportunity to grow, contribute, and inspire—both within the organization and beyond. By embracing structure, staying connected to my roots as a developer, and prioritizing well-being, I’ve found a rhythm that supports both personal and professional fulfilment.
For fellow leaders and aspiring CEOs, I encourage you to find your balance. Your routine may look different, but the principles of discipline, focus, and connection remain universal. Leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s about building a legacy—one productive day at a time.