Love him or loathe him, Elon Musk has some spicy takes on productivity. Whether or not you would take life advice from the man himself, some of these rules are surprisingly practical and worth a second look. One of my favourites is this one:
“Leave a meeting if you’re not adding value.”
Sounds harsh? Maybe. But it’s not rude. In fact, it’s smart and it’s respectful. Respectful to yourself, your time, and your priorities.
This isn’t designed to be disruptive. It’s meant as a power move which sets the tone for others. We show up with purpose.
Musk says – “If you’re not learning or contributing, why are you there?” You’re not a chair-filler. You’re a leader. And your time is your most precious (and limited) resource.
So, consider this. What if… staying in that meeting is actually the rude thing?
The meeting that could’ve been an email. The loop-in that’s draining your energy.
The “you might as well stay” moment that steals an hour you’ll never get back.
Here’s your permission slip:
📌 “I’ll step out to focus on [insert meaningful work here]. Let me know if I’m needed.”
That line doesn’t make you arrogant. It makes you efficient. It sets a norm: presence = contribution.
It has the potential to turn your meetings on their head…..and I bet you are feeling uncomfortable right now just reading about the possibility of leaving a meeting before it is finished.
And yet, I know you will have wasted many hours in meetings just like those I have described. Which means that this perspective is worth your consideration.
I am going to keep the pressure on by stacking this Musk rule with two more power moves:
🧨 Kill the recurring meeting
If nothing new is being said, it’s not a meeting – it’s a habit and a not very helpful one.
We cling to calendar routines like comfort blankets, but if the weekly check-in brings more sighs than insights, it’s time to click cancel.
🍕 Apply the Two-Pizza Rule
Jeff Bezos says any meeting where two pizzas can’t feed the group is too big.
Fewer people = faster decisions + fewer distractions + stronger accountability.
Invite wisely. Participate fully. Otherwise, send an email instead
Hmmmmmmm. Lots to think about.
And yes! All three of these rules matter outside the office too.
That event you’re dreading? That never-ending family group chat? That “quick catch-up” with no purpose? Same rule applies.
You’re allowed to protect your time.
You’re allowed to leave.
And you’re allowed to do something that is meaningful for you, rather than just sit around making up the numbers.
Want to reclaim your time and make space for smarter personal and professional leadership habits? Let’s connect.