Ivy Lee method of “To-Do” List

The Ivy Lee method is a simple yet effective technique for prioritizing tasks and boosting productivity. Here’s a straightforward overview of how it works:

1. At the End of Each Day: Before you finish your workday, write down the six most important tasks you need to accomplish the next day.
2. Prioritize Tasks: Rank these tasks in order of their importance. The most critical task should be at the top of the list, followed by the next most important, and so on.
3. Start with the Top Task: When you start your day, focus on completing the first task on your list before moving on to the next one. Do not proceed to the next task until the current one is finished.
4. Move to the Next Tasks: After completing the top task, move to the second task, and so forth.
5. Repeat the Process: At the end of the day, review what you’ve accomplished, and create a new list of six tasks for the next day, repeating the process.
6. Limit the List: If you didn’t finish all six tasks, carry over the unfinished ones to the new list and add new tasks as needed, maintaining a maximum of six tasks per day.

Benefits of the Ivy Lee Method:

• Focus: Helps you concentrate on what’s truly important and avoid getting bogged down by less critical tasks.
• Clarity: Provides a clear structure for your daily work, reducing overwhelm.
• Productivity: Encourages completion of high-priority tasks before moving on, leading to greater productivity.

Example:

Today’s Tasks:

1. Finish the quarterly report.
2. Prepare for the client presentation.
3. Reply to important emails.
4. Review the new marketing strategy.
5. Attend the team meeting.
6. Plan the upcoming project.

By following this method, you can stay focused on what’s most important each day, improving your productivity and ensuring you’re working on the right tasks.

Views: 35