074: Dave Crenshaw on Freeing Yourself from Always Being Busy

Dave Crenshaw is a master at helping business-owners triumph over chaos. He has appeared in Time magazine, FastCompany, USA Today, and the BBC News. His first book titled The Myth of Multitasking: How ‘Doing It All’ Gets Nothing Done, has been published in six languages and is a best seller in the time-management category. His latest book,  The Focused Business: How Entrepreneurs Can Triumph Over Chaos, is also a best seller in the small business category. As an author, speaker, and business coach, Dave has transformed thousands of businesses worldwide.   A Women Who Has Influenced Your Life  Dave shares how two women of the same name have influenced his life. His wife, Katherine, is an incredible leader. Dave admires her for her ability to get things done, with the gift of making people feel warm and welcomed in the process. She has a way of making everyone feel comfortable being themselves, and that has had the biggest impact on Dave’s life. The second Catherine is the founder of Defy Ventures, which aims to reform the prison system. Dave is inspired by how she always sees the best in everyone. No one wants to hire ex-convicts, so by teaching them about entrepreneurship, they are given the opportunity to take control of their own destiny. What He Sees That Holds Women Back  Dave believes women fall victim to over-commitment, and the “busy badge”. He believes women have thoughts such as: “I am going to do everything; I should be able to do everything because I am strong.” He acknowledges that women are strong, but with only 24 hours in a day, time can be a limiting factor. He sees a lot of people who have taken on the belief that ‘busy equals success’. According to Dave, busy is not success; results are success. What He Has Learned from Women  Dave has learned that—especially with women—it’s not just about making money, it’s about transforming the world. Angy Ford, who takes pride in transforming daycare, has taught him something very important: the finish line. Everyone starts their day out not knowing where it’s going to end. Just like in a race, the finish line defines where you are going to stop and allows you to better map out your day. The Necessary Changes  Dave has seen a lot of women feeling burnt out. He believes that you can do everything and that you are capable, but not all at once. It’s important to recognize your limits and make choices accordingly. When you continually say yes, you are chipping away at all of the yesses you said previously.  Dave shares that you can go into debt with time, but then you have to pay it back with interest. Inspirational Quote   “Conditioning is more powerful than discipline.” Leadership Practice  Dave’s leadership practice revolves around conditioning. He makes sure to clear his ‘physical inbox’ once a week, and ensures to tackle his unresolved points. Interview Links  DaveCrenshaw.com  DaveCrenshaw.com/freetime    If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe in iTunes or Stitcher Radio and never miss out on inspiration and community!