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Visa CEO swears by the Mason Jar method for time management - and blocks 4 hours solely for learning

Oliver Jenkyn, President of Visa, explains how he prioritizes complex problems and simple tasks in his time management.

In this picture it looks like a pamphlet of a company with an image of a cup on it.
In this picture it looks like a pamphlet of a company with an image of a cup on it.

Visa CEO swears by the Mason Jar method for time management - and blocks 4 hours solely for learning

Visa CEO Oliver Jenkyn credits a strict weekly learning routine for his career success. Every Friday at 5:30 AM, he dedicates four hours to studying complex topics he doesn’t yet fully grasp. This habit, which he compares to a workout, has become a cornerstone of his professional growth.

Jenkyn first adopted this learning practice during his time at McKinsey. He treats it as non-negotiable, blocking out the time in his calendar before anything else. Skipping a session, he says, feels as noticeable as missing a gym workout.

To manage his workload, Jenkyn uses the 'Jar of Rocks' method. He categorises tasks into 'big rocks'—Visa’s most pressing challenges—'pebbles' for moderately important work, and 'sand' for routine duties like emails. This approach ensures he focuses on what truly matters. Beyond personal discipline, Jenkyn looks for the same traits in new hires. He seeks candidates with strong problem-solving skills and a hunger for continuous learning. For him, adaptability and a culture of curiosity are essential in today’s fast-moving world. He calls his four-hour weekly sessions a 'game-changer', even claiming they are the 'only reason' he holds his current role at Visa.

Jenkyn’s method combines time management with relentless self-improvement. By prioritising deep learning and critical challenges, he maintains an edge in leadership. His approach also shapes Visa’s hiring philosophy, reinforcing the value of curiosity and adaptability in business.

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