How Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Maximizes Productivity Through Sleep and Digital Discipline

Telegram cofounder Pavel Durov reveals that he dedicates 11 to 12 hours each night for rest and relaxation.

The key to Pavel Durov's productivity and success lies in extensive sleep and implementing strict limitations on smartphone usage.

During his appearance on Lex Fridman's podcast, Durov explained that he sets aside 11 to 12 hours nightly for rest, although he doesn't necessarily sleep the entire time.

"I prioritize allocating maximum time for sleep. Even when I schedule 11 or 12 hours, I'm not actually sleeping that entire duration. What happens is I spend time lying in bed thinking," Durov shared with Fridman.

He continued, "I cherish these moments. I generate many brilliant ideas, or at least they seem brilliant at the time, while I'm lying in bed, either late at night or early in the morning."

Despite his career in social networking, Durov remains mindful about the negative effects of constant smartphone interaction. He avoids checking his phone immediately after waking, believing that notifications and social media can dictate one's thoughts throughout the day. "I want to determine what's important in my life. I don't want others—people, companies, or organizations—telling me what's important today or what I should be thinking about," he explained.

Durov emphasized the importance of uninterrupted thinking during morning routines. "Creative ideas can emerge while doing morning exercises or routines without your phone. If you check your phone first thing in the morning, you become influenced by what others want you to think about for the rest of the day. The same applies to consuming news from social media before bedtime," he stated.

According to Business Insider, Fridman observed that during the two weeks he spent with Durov, he rarely saw the entrepreneur engage with social media in conventional ways.

Durov acknowledged the irony of his phone usage limitations given his professional background. "I recognize it seems counterintuitive since I founded one of the world's largest social networks, followed by creating the second-largest messaging application globally."

He clarified that while he values connectivity, excessive accessibility can reduce productivity. "The more connected and accessible you are, the less productive you become," he noted.

The Russian-born CEO has been outspoken about data privacy. In August, he declared that he would "rather die" than allow third parties access to Telegram messages. While championing technology and connectivity, Durov emphasizes balance, encouraging people to reflect on what truly matters to them and the changes they wish to make in the world.