A Senior Partner's Energetic Routine at BCG: Basketball and Cookies

Navigating work-life equilibrium is a challenge, but after more than 14 years with Boston Consulting Group, I've learned to thrive within the busy consultant schedule and still enjoy a full night's rest.

My schedule is usually filled with numerous meetings, often involving difficult discussions with clients. However, I have a firm rule: I always reserve time to read at day's end.

Playing basketball is a passion of mine. It serves as my moment of tranquility where I practice my shooting moves at a local park.

Afterward, I head home, refresh myself with a shower, and prepare for the day ahead. My office in Austin is about a 15-minute walk from my apartment, during which I stop by Veracruz for my beloved coffee and breakfast tacos.

The mornings are dedicated to intensive thinking and strategizing. I concentrate on getting ready for discussions with clients and engaging in extensive AI research.

I spearhead a lot of our exploration into AI trends, which involves reading BCG's internal communications and newsletters focused on AI.

We compile and circulate a list titled 'Top 10 Reads This Week,' aggregating insights from multiple media sources.

Regarding podcasts, I have an unpopular opinion: I don't enjoy them. I prefer reading anything related to AI that lands in my inbox.

I'm part of an AI-focused group chat with former classmates from Stanford, many of whom are involved in AI as researchers, investors, or engineers. We exchange knowledge and insights regularly.

Every day brings a certain level of tension as we consistently challenge each other and ourselves.

At the executive level, many companies view AI considerations almost as a critical issue. There's widespread talk about it, board questions, and fears that most projects might not succeed, creating a tight spot.

As questions trickle down inside organizations, they become more about personal impact: employees feel protective about the way things have traditionally been.

AI's integration is noticeable in the restaurant industry too. Innovations like apps and personalization have existed for customers, but now the focus is shifting to operational intelligence.

Being able to empower a restaurant shift manager with the right tools significantly eases the complexities of managing orders, drinks, and food service. AI helps simplify these processes.

Occasionally, I engage in intense discussions about career paths, which might evoke emotional responses. When emotions run high, I remind people to take their time, supporting them with tissues if needed, acknowledging our shared humanity.

Over time, the sensations that concern me before entering the office have evolved. I'm confident now about handling meetings. What worries me more is ensuring that my teams are strategically placed for success.

Consulting is episodic, and missed opportunities can delay career growth by months. Thus, I spend considerable time strategizing the allocation of team members.

I'm often wrestling with a packed timetable. Currently, I'm working on drafting an analysis of generative AI, and securing even two uninterrupted hours of focused work is a challenge, albeit an enjoyable one.

By 5 p.m., it's typical for me to catch a flight.

I am a strong advocate of non-stop flights.

Most of my travel takes me to different U.S. cities for client engagements. Lately, places like Dallas, Chicago, and my newfound favorite, Minneapolis, have been frequent stops.

Flight delays pose significant challenges to my already packed schedule. I travel to multiple cities weekly, keeping in close contact with my assistant to manage my time effectively.

I prioritize getting seven to eight hours of sleep. When I have control over my schedule, I usually succeed in this, but flight delays regularly pose obstacles.

I efficiently utilize my commute, often scheduling calls during my walk to the office or while heading to the airport—turning what could be wasted time into productive hours.

Reading is an essential part of my routine. Despite my schedule, I manage to read about a hundred books annually.

I am progressing through the complete biographies of U.S. presidents and recently finished an impressive account of John Quincy Adams.

I also enjoy diving into science fiction and am working my way through past Hugo Award-winning books.

When Friday arrives, I'm ready for a full weekend break. By Monday, I'm excited to start afresh, solving new problems and organizing the pieces.

Lastly, sweets like cookies are a boost for me throughout my workday.