Use This Simple Hack to Actually Conquer Your To-Do List
Finish all your end-of-year tasks and start 2024 with a bang
Hi my overwhelmed and slightly anxious friend,
I can’t believe 2023 is about to end. It feels that after Covid, life is moving too fast or maybe this is only true for me.
I started my self-help journey in November last year, I think. I was writing before that as well, but not too seriously. I wanted to give this my 100% and hence started my journey of self-improvement. Which sucks, to be honest.
For the first few months, I was so hard with myself. One little goal missed, one thing unticked on my to-do list, and I would feel devasted. I felt like a failure.
After reading some books, and tons of articles, I know now that it’s a part of the journey.
But lately, I feel myself getting anxious again. And it took me some time to realize that the reason is that I have a lot to do and so little time.
I want to end this year positively, and I have to plan for the next year as well.
Maybe you’re like me and are feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list. Like there's just too much to do and not enough time?
If the answer is yes, don’t worry. I have a solution to this problem.
There was a simple hack to conquer your to-do list and smash those goals.
Introducing the 5-Minute Rule! ⏱️
This powerful technique is all about committing to just 5 minutes of a task you're avoiding. It's like dipping your toe in the water before diving in.
Here's why it works:
Beats procrastination: 5 minutes feels doable, even when you're feeling overwhelmed. It removes the mental hurdle of getting started.
Spark momentum: Often, those 5 minutes turn into 10, then 20, as you get sucked into the task and make progress. Momentum builds! 🚀
Small wins matter: Completing even a small part of a task feels good and gives you a sense of accomplishment. You're not stuck in the starting block anymore!
Ready to give it a try?
If I have convinced you to try this simple hack, here’s how you can put this idea into reality.
Pick your nemesis: Identify the task you've been putting off (e.g., writing a report, cleaning your inbox, calling a client).
Set your timer: Commit to just 5 minutes, with no distractions. Put your phone away! This is the biggest pre-requisite - put away your phone.
Go! Start working on the task. Don't worry about perfection, make progress.
Celebrate: If you sit down to do what you want to do, even if it’s just for 5 minutes, even if it wasn't much, acknowledge your effort and feel proud.
The 5-Minute Rule is a game-changer. It's not about magic, it's about removing the friction and harnessing the power of small wins.
So next time you're staring down a daunting to-do list, remember: Just 5 minutes.
You might be surprised at what you can accomplish.
This is what I’m trying to do now. It has worked fine this last week, and hopefully, I can keep the momentum going.
Let me know how the 5-Minute Rule works for you! Share your experiences and conquered tasks in the comments below or reply to this email. 👇
Happy conquering!
Sushmita