I’ve seen a lot of content around Snapchat about documenting the day. I decided to give it a try and see what I ended up with.

Today was one of those days jammed with meetings. I love having conversations about product, growth, and strategy so I actually enjoy meetings where that takes place. I think about it a lot like engineering, only more relationally than architecturally. I know a lot of engineers who like to stay away from it all. I love it.

Unfortunately, I don’t get a lot of coding time on days like today, so that means late nights or restructuring my time over the next few days to catch up. We have a small engineering team relative to our scale, which is intentional, but means staying focused and on schedule is key.

I also didn’t get a lot of family time in today, which is actually pretty rare. I’m really grateful that I get to spend about 99% of evenings at home, hanging with Leo and Becky Jo. This time is precious.

I’m not sure if I will document another day, but I will say that it’s been interesting to have a visual playback of my day to reflect on. Here’s a few key takeaways from today:

1. Don’t waste time. I don’t like to waste time. I think a lot of people waste time. If you want to get somewhere in your life, achieve something, or improve your life in some way you have to put in the hours. There’s no shortcuts, just hard work on the right things. Make sure everything you do maps to your ultimate goal. Have a goal.

2. Understand the cost. I didn’t get a lot family time in today, that was a cost. I did however invest in relationships at work, team strategy, and career. I’m willing to invest here because I understand the long game. Everything has a cost to it, make sure you understand the economics of your life.

3. Perceptions matter. For good or for bad, that’s the way the world works. Be aware of your influence and perception to others. Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses. Use your influence to build others up and reach your goals. It matters.

4. Be grateful for those who support and lift you up. Who’s your champion? I’ve learned to cherish those around me who encourage and support me through life. Whether it’s a great team, friends, or family – surround yourself with a support structure. It also helps to have an amazing partner in it all, which Becky Jo is amazing. So thankful to God for blessing me with a wonderful wife and family.

Excited for tomorrow.