The problem with this advice of “guarding your time” is you’ll also then negate the servant leadership role if you do this arbitrarily anytime someone wants to talk to you. Certainly not suggesting that Gates and Buffet haven’t done good deeds for people. I acknowledge that they are probably two of the biggest philanthropists of all time. They have however got themselves into a position to be more discerning with their time over decades. When you’re in your 20’s and even 30’s, 40’s and beyond and are building a career it is not wise to brush everyone. As much as you may dislike it the world is built on “quid pro quo”. Why would people do things for you if you do nothing for them?
It’s a privilege they want to chat to you. Be a servant to others. Particularly for those in leadership positions such as managers, coaches, team leaders etc. “Guarding your time” and showing zero interest in others to protect your “valuable time” is actually the quickest way to create negativity towards you. Subsequently it is also highly unlikely people will go the extra mile for you if you’ve never put yourself out for them.
You can still guard your time. But be smart about what you choose to do and not do. Don’t go to those wasteful meetings that can be managed by your direct reports. Show trust and faith in them. Don’t let the phone rule you. Don’t watch the news. It’s only noise. Actions like this will ensure you have the time to devote to your lifting, your work and your people. These are far more valuable items that will repay for you into the future then listening to some Twitter guru tell you to guard your time to the point we’re all you are doing is been perceived as self centred.