focus

Why I Never Run Out of Toothpaste (but Should)

It’s not intentional. That’s part of the problem

Take a lesson from my shaving kit: If you grab a task at random to work on, you’ll stay busy, but you’ll never get anything done.

4:10 read (841 words)

How To Displace Quadrant 4 Before It Ruins Your Day

Understand why you’re avoiding Quadrants 1–3 and stay on track

We escape into Quadrant 4 when we’re overwhelmed, stressed, or have nothing better to do. Each of these problems can be fixed.

4:40 read (937 words)

You’ll Only Get the Most Important Things Done

Start with the important and finish with a clear conscience

You may not have the time to get everything done, but if you work your plan, you’ll get the most important things done. There’s peace in that.

4:25 read (879 words)

When You Should Ignore the Big Frog on Your Plate

Your most important thing today might not be the most important thing right now

Most productivity systems involve identifying your most important task and working on it and nothing else until it’s done. That might be the decision that ruins your day.

3:10 read (632 words)

How to Get More Done with a Fraction of the Work

Three simple steps that will change your task list forever

What could you eliminate, automate, or delegate today to free up your valuable time and attention?

2:55 read (588 words)

How to Plan Your Day with the Productivity Matrix

You can’t do everything, but you can do the right things

Eisenhower’s productivity matrix is usually used to take a high-level look at where we’re spending (and wasting) time. It’s also a great tool for low-level planning of your day/week.

3:20 read (668 words)

Why Hard Work Might be the Worst Thing You Can Do

Success is measured by what you get out, not by what you put in

Effort only measures how busy we are. Productivity is measured by results—the effort that brings us closer to success.

2:35 read (524 words)

Are You Doing More Than You Need to be Effective?

If you don’t overdo it, you could get more done

The most productive people know when they’ve hit the point of diminishing returns and it’s time to move on.

3:25 read (680 words)

Focus on the Internet You Need with a Dedicated Browser

Increase Your Focus and Productivity By Accessing Only the Internet You Need

Web apps are useful, but they can open you up to a universe of distractions. Load just the Internet that you need with a custom desktop app.

3:05 read (618 words)

When Everything’s Important, Nothing Is

You really can get more done by focusing on less

What’s important needs to stand out. Don’t let things that are unimportant pull you down.

4:00 read (800 words)