How NFL Veteran John Welbourn's Time and Cost-Benefit Approach Can Help Block Out Noise and Focus on What Matters

NFL veteran John Welbourn, founder of Power Athlete, uses a Stoic approach to time management to help anyone filter out distractions, be more present, and focus on what truly matters. By asking, "Is this necessary?" at every moment, Welbourn provides a framework for maximizing productivity and fulfillment.

How NFL Veteran John Welbourn's Cost-Benefit Approach Can Help Focus on What Matters / The Everyday Warrior Nation

In today's fast-paced world, distractions are everywhere—including endless social media scrolling, unnecessary meetings, or tasks that don't add value. NFL veteran John Welbourn offers a practical solution to help anyone, not just athletes, cut through the noise and make time for what truly matters. His philosophy is built on a simple but powerful question: "At this moment, is this necessary?" Rooted in Stoic wisdom from Marcus Aurelius, Welbourn's approach to time management focuses on the cost-benefit analysis of every moment, helping people prioritize what provides value to their lives or those around them.

Welbourn's experience in the NFL and his transition to the business world as the founder of Power Athlete have shaped his perspective on time management and focus. When asked how he navigates his busy life, Welbourn emphasizes determining whether an action or task is necessary. In his words, "At this moment, is this necessary?" By constantly questioning the value of each moment, Welbourn has built a framework to help him maximize productivity and fulfillment.

Cost-Benefit Analysis in Everyday Life

A key aspect of Welbourn's approach is his constant use of cost-benefit analysis, where he assesses whether a particular activity is worth the time, energy, and attention it demands. If the answer is yes, he gives it his entire focus. If not, he moves on, unafraid to block out what doesn't add value. This practice lets him filter out distractions, such as mindless social media scrolling or unnecessary commitments.

This cost-benefit analysis can easily be applied by anyone. For example, how much value do you get from spending 30 minutes scrolling on Instagram compared to spending that same time exercising, reading, or spending time with loved ones? The key is in assessing each action and choosing those that will contribute positively to your personal or professional growth.

Presence: The Power of Being 100% Focused

One of Welbourn's key insights is the concept of being fully present. He argues that many people go through life with 40% effort, only half engaged in their actions. Whether spending time with family, working on a project, or training in the gym, Welbourn advocates for giving 100% of your attention and energy to whatever you do. This boosts productivity and increases the quality of your experiences and interactions.

This idea aligns with mindfulness research, which shows that being fully engaged in the present moment can lead to greater satisfaction and performance. A study published in Harvard Business Review found that people who practice mindfulness in their work experience less stress, greater focus, and improved decision-making.

Cutting Out the Unnecessary

Welbourn acknowledges that only some things we do are essential. Tasks that don't add value to your life, such as checking your phone every few minutes or mindlessly agreeing to projects or favors, drain your energy. By asking, "Is this necessary?" at every moment, you can eliminate these unnecessary tasks and make more room for what truly matters.

Incorporating this mindset can transform how you spend your time. It's about more than just being perfect or productive but about making intentional choices. Whether you spend more time with your family, pursue a passion, or focus on professional growth, Welbourn's approach provides a blueprint for leading a more purposeful life.

John Welbourn’s time management philosophy offers a valuable lesson in today’s distraction-heavy world. By applying a cost-benefit analysis to each moment and focusing on being fully present, anyone can unlock greater value in their daily lives. Welbourn’s approach isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what truly matters and doing it with purpose and focus.