8 techniques to maximize your time and focus
Mar 21, 2025
ONE IDEA FOR YOU TO THINK ABOUT
I used to feel completely overwhelmed by my to-do list. It was the #1 thing keeping me stuck.
Over time, I realized that a major cause of my burnout was my poor time management.
Finding the right tools (that resonated with ME) made all the difference. Now, I very rarely feel burnt out.
Here are 8 proven productivity techniques (and when to use them). You can also find them in this printable cheatsheet.
1️⃣ Pomodoro Technique
↳ What it does: Breaks work into manageable 25-minute chunks with breaks.
↳ When to use: For tasks requiring deep focus but feeling overwhelming.
2️⃣ The 2-Minute Rule
↳ What it does: Tackles tasks you’d otherwise procrastinate on.
↳ When to use: To clear small tasks like emails or messages.
3️⃣ Time Blocking
↳ What it does: Allocates time for deep work, meetings, and breaks.
↳ When to use: To create structure in your day.
4️⃣ The Eisenhower Matrix (I DO NOT START A MONDAY WITHOUT DOING THIS!)
↳ What it does: Prioritizes tasks by urgency and importance.
↳ When to use: When your to-do list feels unmanageable.
5️⃣ The 1-3-5 Rule
↳ What it does: Balances your workload with 1 big, 3 medium, and 5 small tasks.
↳ When to use: When you need to focus on impact, not volume.
6️⃣ Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule)
↳ What it does: Focuses energy on the 20% of tasks that deliver 80% of results.
↳ When to use: When your workload feels overwhelming.
7️⃣ Getting Things Done (GTD)
↳ What it does: Breaks down tasks into clear, actionable steps.
↳ When to use: To organize a chaotic workload.
8️⃣ Eat That Frog
↳ What it does: Gets the biggest challenge done first, building momentum.
↳ When to use: To tackle your hardest or most important task.
TWO QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF
1️⃣ How much of your burnout is linked to feeling like there’s never enough time to focus on your goals?
2️⃣ How much of your daily stress could be reduced by organizing your time more intentionally?
ONE EXERCISE FOR YOU TO TRY THIS WEEK
This week, pick one of the frameworks above and give it a try. If it doesn’t feel right or isn’t working for you, that’s okay! Switch to another one that better suits your style.
The goal is to find what clicks and helps you feel more in control. Track your progress and reflect on how you feel at the end of the week.
Remember, the goal is to reduce stress and work smarter, not harder!
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