BOOK REVIEW – When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing

When: the Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing

By Daniel H. Pink / @DanielPink

Canongate, 2018

In the four days since finishing Daniel Pink’s new book When, I’ve walked at least 2 kilometres at lunch. That’s the kind of book this is – it challenges your thinking about the every day.

Moving past simply how or why, Pink examines how time – and our notion of ‘the time’ – play a role in our lives. He delves into research and pulls data together resulting in a book packed with relatable stories, surprising ideas and ways we can change our approach to work.

When charts the rhythm of the day, with Pink investigating the effect time has on our moods, psychology and physiology. It contains a great deal of information organisations could tap into to change, improve and revitalise the ways in which employees work. Many of these will be challenging to implement, but as Pink underlines here; both productivity and culture stand to benefit.

From the mental effects of beginnings, middles and endings, to the power of the nappuccino and yes, the power of getting away from your desk  – hence my new daily lunch walks – Pink reveals tactics to best leverage time in both a personal and professional capacity. Each chapter also includes a Time Hacker’s Handbook, offering guidance on how to introduce new ideas and actions to your day.

When is entertaining and Pink keeps it moving typically well. The research is there if you want to dig further but each case is well-made and backed up without getting bogged down in too much detail. And as it turns out, it may just be habit-forming.

When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing is available now