Simcha Hyman: Embracing Analog Productivity in a Digital World

Simcha Hyman stands out in business leadership with his unique approach to balancing productivity and personal growth. His day begins as the sun rises, typically around 6 AM, with a ritual that sets the tone for what’s ahead. “I’ll usually sit in bed for around 15 minutes and read a book,” Hyman reveals. He is currently immersing himself in the teachings of Osho, a spiritual guru from decades past.

Physical fitness is a non-negotiable component of Hyman’s routine, seamlessly integrated into his schedule at dawn or later. However, before diving into the professional sphere, he prioritizes quality time with his loved ones. “Being present in the morning with my family is a value of mine,” Hyman emphasizes, savoring coffee with his wife and connecting with his children before they head off to school.

As the clock strikes 8 AM, Hyman shifts gears into work mode. His days are a whirlwind of calls, meetings, and city excursions. When in the urban jungle, he maintains his commitment to fitness, working with a personal trainer and tackling the humbling challenge of swim lessons.

Interestingly, Hyman has recently pivoted away from digital task management tools. “I used Asana from 2014 till probably 2021 or 2022,” he recollects. However, he found that excessive screen time was impacting his focus. “I felt like the less I’m on technology, the more I have my brain back,” Hyman explains. Now, he swears by the simplicity of pen and paper for task lists and idea development.

This analog approach has revolutionized how Hyman breathes life into his ideas. He pens them down, discusses them with others, and if the concept resonates, he nurtures it further. “Writing helps me be productive,” he emphasizes, underscoring the power of the written word in his process.

Hyman’s take on productivity is refreshingly introspective. He makes a point to check in with himself at day’s end, assessing his accomplishments. “I went for many years being, like, 20x a very productive human, but not feeling like a productive human,” he reflects. This self-awareness has become a crucial element of his work ethic.

Regarding business growth, Hyman credits transparency as his secret weapon. “It’s better to deal with everything right away, so you can kind of always think forward and progress forward,” he explains. This approach has helped him sidestep professional pitfalls and maintain open lines of communication with colleagues.

Hyman’s journey has its challenges. He recounts his experience selling his first company in 2014, where he found himself stretched too thin. “I worked myself too hard and burnt myself out,” he admits candidly. This experience taught him the invaluable lesson of hiring the right people and delegating effectively.

For those looking to make their mark in the business world, Hyman recommends comprehensively understanding various business components. He’s particularly bullish on the healthcare sector, noting its resilience during economic downturns and the diverse roles available beyond clinical practice.

Simcha Hyman is a firm believer in lifelong learning. He’s an avid consumer of podcasts, with “All In” and Lex Fridman’s show topping his list. He finds inspiration in various topics, from friendship to cutting-edge technology. His reading list is equally eclectic, spanning from “Tearing Down the Walls,” a biography of Sandy Weill, to the philosophical journey of “The Alchemist.”

Simcha Hyman’s approach to life and business is characterized by constant self-reflection, an insatiable appetite for knowledge, and a delicate balance between modern technology and time-honored analog methods. His evolution from a hands-on entrepreneur to a CEO who values delegation and honesty offers a wealth of insights for anyone looking to scale the corporate ladder while maintaining equilibrium.

Hyman’s journey reminds us that success isn’t just about productivity metrics but about finding fulfillment in the process. His advice to “be checking with yourself that you’re productive” and to “play out your life like it was a movie” encapsulates his philosophy of mindful ambition.

Simcha Hyman’s unique blend of spiritual grounding, physical fitness, family values, and professional drive sets him apart as he continues to navigate the business world. His story is a testament to the power of self-awareness, continuous learning, and the courage to step away from conventional wisdom when it no longer serves its purpose. In a world increasingly dominated by digital solutions, Hyman’s embrace of analog methods offers a refreshing perspective on achieving success and personal satisfaction.