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How to Identify a Great Leader: Look at Their Calendar

If you want to know what makes a leader exceptional, don’t just listen to their words—check their schedule. A leader’s calendar is a window into their priorities, revealing how they spend their most valuable resource: time. According to leadership expert Mark Murphy, the way someone manages their days often separates the truly great from the merely good.

Great leaders don’t let their calendars become a chaotic mess of back-to-back meetings or endless firefighting. Instead, they carve out intentional time for what matters most. Murphy points to research showing that top-tier leaders dedicate significant chunks—often 20% or more of their week—to strategic thinking and planning. This isn’t just idle daydreaming; it’s focused time to wrestle with big-picture questions like “Where are we headed?” and “What’s next for my team?”

Contrast that with average leaders, whose schedules are often clogged with reactive tasks—responding to emails, micromanaging, or jumping from one urgent issue to another. While these things can feel productive, they rarely move the needle forward. Great leaders, Murphy argues, protect their time like a fortress, saying “no” to distractions so they can say “yes” to impact.

Another telltale sign? How much time do they invest in people? Exceptional leaders block off hours to coach their teams, listen to concerns, and build trust. A 2024 study found that leaders who spend at least 15% of their week on one-on-one mentoring see higher employee engagement and retention. It’s not about being everyone’s best friend—it’s about growing talent and aligning the team around a shared vision.

Finally, look for balance. The best leaders schedule downtime to recharge, whether it’s a walk, a workout, or just quiet reflection. Burned-out leaders can’t inspire anyone, and a calendar with no breathing room is a red flag. As Murphy puts it, “A leader’s time reflects their values.” So, next time you’re sizing up a boss or colleague, skip the resume—ask to peek at their calendar. It’ll tell you everything you need to know.