How Your Bitcoin Company Can Avoid Burnout

The Fault in Traditional Approaches

In the Bitcoin start-up environment, where new products or services are constantly shipped and teams are openly testing in the market, the old formula of “maximum effort = maximum results” can seem fitting. However, this approach leads to exhaustion, burnout, and decreased productivity in various roles, from Bitcoin developers to Bitcoin marketers. Here's a guide for Bitcoin companies to help their teams avoid burnout, focusing on the transformative 85% rule, and the actionable steps to apply it.

The 85% Rule

Nine-time Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis and his coach, Tom Tellez, emphasized the importance of sensible training and relaxation. For example, when sprinters are told to accelerate to their 100% level too soon, they end up running a slower race overall. They found running at a calm 85% pace led to a sustained boost in overall performance, which led to winning gold multiple times in the Olympics. In the workplace, managers can apply these principles by not pushing their teams to breaking points.

Here are 5 ways to implement the 85% rule in a Bitcoin start-up:

1. Set Clear “Done for the Day” Timeframes

   Bitcoin never stops running, but humans do not. Defining clear work hours is essential. Supportive management should encourage team members to shut off their work computers and phone at a reasonable time, enhancing their productivity for the next day.

2. Operate at Optimal Capacity

   Encourage team members to find their 85% intensity spot. This involves conversations about what it feels like to be at full throttle and how to maintain a slightly reduced yet optimal level. For example, Lightning Engineers should be aware when fatigue sets in at certain times of the day while writing code.

3. Embrace 85%-Right Decisions

   In the volatile Bitcoin market, waiting for 100% certainty is unrealistic, and even a hindrance to the business. Cultivate a culture where an 85%-right decision is accepted, alleviating pressure and keeping the momentum going. Choosing not to punish near-completed tasks is a way to embrace right decisions.

4. Address Stress with Top Performers

   Top performers in Bitcoin companies typically include leadership roles such as Head of Sales or VP of Engineering. Engage with these top performers to understand how to reduce unnecessary stress in their work. Be proactive in reducing the pressure that can lead to burnout among the most engaged employees.

5. Lead by Example

   As a leader in a Bitcoin start up, show that it's acceptable to work sensibly in any part of the organization. Operating at 85% does not only apply to your team members. If you are sending emails late, consider scheduling them for standard work hours to send the right message to your team.

Preparing for the Bitcoin Bull Market

The upcoming Bitcoin bull market will be exhilarating but exhausting. Embracing the 85% rule in your Bitcoin start-up isn't about settling for less but about optimizing performance without sacrificing well-being. Whether you're dealing with a part-time bitcoin content manager or full-time bitcoin product manager, implementing the 85% rule now in the Bitcoin bear market across all levels and functions within the organization will set your team up for success during the next price rally.

Recognizing the Bitcoin industry is not immune to burnout, Bitcoin Talent Co. is here to help grow your team effectively. Whether you need help hiring full-time and part-time positions or would like to use our advisory services to optimize your team’s output, get in touch with our team today to see how we can support your Bitcoin company.

-Andy Thompson, CEO of Bitcoin Talent Co.

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