What is it like to be Jack Dorsey?

Being Jack Dorsey, the co-founder and former CEO of Twitter and the current head of Block (formerly Square), is a unique and multifaceted experience marked by a blend of innovative entrepreneurship, strict personal routines, and a mix of public admiration and criticism.

Early Life and Career

Dorsey's journey into technology began early, with his parents buying him a computer at the age of eight. He taught himself to code and created a dispatch software program for taxis, ambulances, and couriers while still in high school. After dropping out of the University of Missouri-Rolla, he moved to California to pursue his tech career, eventually co-founding Odeo and then Twitter in 20063.

Daily Routine

Dorsey's daily life is highly structured and includes several eccentric habits. Here are some key aspects:

• Walking to Work: He walks over 5 miles to work, often listening to podcasts and reflecting during this time2.
• Meditation: Dorsey meditates for two hours a day, which he believes helps him manage stress and stay focused2.
• Eating Habits: He follows a strict eating routine, restricting his food intake to a 2.5-hour window between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays. On weekends, he sometimes fasts for 72 hours straight. This regimen has been criticized for potentially normalizing disordered eating23.
• Physical Routine: His day includes a sauna and ice bath routine, and he is a believer in the 7-Minute Workout, a high-intensity bodyweight exercise regimen2.

Leadership and Work Ethic

Dorsey is known for his leadership style, which emphasizes transparency, communication, and collaboration. He values building a strong, effective team and is willing to make tough decisions and take risks when necessary. His ability to balance multiple roles, such as running Twitter and Square simultaneously, is also noteworthy3.

Public Persona and Controversies

Dorsey's public persona is marked by his advocacy for cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin, and his recent venture into blockchain-based social media with Bluesky Social. He has also been involved in controversies, such as supporting Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter while later voicing dissent over certain post-acquisition decisions. Additionally, his endorsements of controversial figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have drawn attention1.

Philanthropy and Wellness

Dorsey is committed to philanthropy, having donated millions to various causes, including COVID-19 relief and education initiatives through his #StartSmall initiative. He is also a strong advocate for mental health and wellness, having implemented wellness programs for employees at both Square and Twitter3.

Lifestyle

Dorsey's lifestyle is lavish, with luxurious properties, high-profile relationships, and a collection of fast cars. Despite the luxuries, his personal habits and routines are remarkably disciplined and Spartan in some respects1.

In summary, being Jack Dorsey involves a rigorous daily routine, a strong commitment to innovation and leadership, and a blend of public scrutiny and admiration. His life is a testament to the intersection of technological innovation, personal discipline, and public influence.