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So, if you don’t already know, I have a love for all things productivity. The Ivy Lee method, developed in the early 1900s, is one of the simplest yet most effective productivity systems I’ve used. In just 15 minutes a day, it can double your productivity and change how you work.
The beauty of the Ivy Lee method is its simplicity. There are no apps, tools, or complicated processes. All you need is a pen and paper, and the dedication to stick to some simple rules. If you follow the method as intended, you'll find yourself breezing through your to-do lists, ending each day with a sense of accomplishment.
In this blog post, I'll walk you through exactly how the Ivy Lee method works, how you can implement it today, and how it can transform the way you work and live.
Are you ready to become twice as productive?
Understanding the Ivy Lee Method for Productivity
The Ivy Lee method is a simple yet effective productivity system that simply involves writing down your six most important tasks for the day in order of priority.
Plan your day the night before
Take a few minutes at the end of each day to determine your six key tasks for the following day. That way, you can hit the ground running as soon as you start work. Having clarity on what needs to be achieved helps avoid wasting time figuring out what to focus on.
Focus on one task at a time
Start at the top of the list and focus solely on that task until it's complete before moving on to the next one. Avoid distractions, especially your mobile phone, and don't move on until the job is done. This focused approach means giving each task your full attention, leading to higher-quality work in less time.
Review and revise
At the end of each day, review which tasks you completed and which are still outstanding. Then, create a new list of six key tasks to work on for the next day. Continually revising and improving your productivity system is key to achieving ongoing success and maximum efficiency.
The Ivy Lee method has been used successfully for over a century because it works. By focusing your time and energy on one important task at a time, you'll get more high-priority work done in less time.
How to Implement the Ivy Lee Method in Your Daily Routine
Start by writing down your six most important tasks. If your current to-do list is super long, focus on high-priority items that will really move the needle.
Tackle those six tasks in order of importance, one at a time. Turn off notifications on your devices and work single-mindedly through your list. Take short breaks when needed to recharge, but avoid distractions. But remember, scrolling through your social media is not a break!
This method forces you to concentrate on your most important tasks and avoid the doubt and overwhelm that can often come with a lengthy to-do list.
To make the Ivy Lee Method work for you:
Review your six tasks at the end of each day and determine what still needs to be done. Decide if these tasks need to be moved to the next day.
Be flexible. If new high-priority work comes in, you may need to re-order or replace some of the six tasks. The key is to focus on what's most important.
Start small if you need to. Begin with just three essential tasks if six seems overwhelming. You can work your way up as you feel more in control.
Take regular time for planning and preparation. The Ivy Lee Method works best when you take the time to review and plan properly.
With practice, the Ivy Lee Method can become second nature. By focusing your time and energy on high-impact work, you'll achieve more in less time and gain a new sense of accomplishment.
Why is the Ivy Lee Method so Successful?
The Ivy Lee method is so successful because it focuses your time and efforts on what really matters.
Simplicity
The method itself is straightforward and simple to implement. All you need is 15 minutes at the end of each workday and a means of capturing your to-do list. There's no complicated system to learn or software to master. This means you can start using it immediately and easily bring it into your daily routine.
Focus
Reviewing and prioritising your major tasks at the end of each day can help you gain clarity and focus on what needs to be done. When you start your day with clear priorities, you avoid wasting time figuring out what to work on next or getting distracted by less important tasks. Your time and mental energy are focused on the things that really matter.
Flexibility
Even though you create a list to prioritise your major tasks, the Ivy Lee method retains flexibility. Your priorities may shift, or new urgent tasks may emerge. You can easily re-prioritise your list at the end of each day based on what actually needs to get done. The method provides structure and allows you to adapt to the changing demands of your work and life.
Progress
You make measurable progress each day by focusing on one important task at a time and avoiding distractions. Having a system to keep you accountable leads to building momentum over weeks and months. You'll be amazed at how much you accomplish using this simple technique.
Give it a try—you might wonder how you ever worked any other way.
To learn more about the history and benefits of the Ivy Lee Method, I recommend checking out James Clear's blog post, ‘The Ivy Lee Method: The Daily Routine Experts Recommend for Peak Productivity’. His post provides detailed insights and more practical guidance on implementing this method.
I understand the frustrations that can arise as a founder or business owner when you find yourself in a state of uncertainty. With countless tasks and decisions on your plate, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the best way forward.
That's where I can help.
My SOS Power Hour is an opportunity for you to unload your business concerns. During our brainstorming session, I'll provide a space where I actively listen and ask the right questions to help you work through your roadblocks. Together, we'll craft a customised action plan to help you confidently move forward.
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