A fascinating trend is emerging among top executives that could reshape how we think about productivity in the AI age. Business Insider reports that CEOs are increasingly adopting ‘power hours’ - dedicated blocks of time for deep, focused work without interruptions. This approach, championed by leaders like Satya Nadella of Microsoft and Marc Benioff of Salesforce, involves turning off notifications, closing email, and dedicating uninterrupted time to strategic thinking and complex problem-solving. As AI tools automate routine tasks, this human-centric approach to deep work is becoming a competitive advantage.
What makes this trend particularly relevant is how it contrasts with the always-on, notification-driven work culture that has dominated in recent years. While AI and automation promise to handle mundane tasks, the most successful executives are recognizing that human creativity and strategic thinking require a different environment. The power hour concept represents a counterbalance to the fragmented attention that characterizes much of modern work life. As generative AI continues to transform workflows, the ability to carve out distraction-free time for high-value cognitive work may become an essential leadership skill rather than a luxury.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/bi-today-sunday-newsletter-ceo-power-hours-2025-7