The 80/20 Approach Made Simple
The idea is straightforward: a few key actions create most of your results. Here’s how to use it in a practical way.
1. Get Clear on What You Want
- Decide what a “big win” looks like. Focus on impact, not perfection.
- Look at where your time and energy go right now. Notice what actually helps and what doesn’t.
2. Put Your Energy Where It Counts
- Ask for each task: Does this create real progress or is it just noise?
- Most progress usually comes from a few important actions.
- Use the Eisenhower Matrix to sort tasks. The best work sits in “Important but Not Urgent.”
3. Cut the Waste
- Delegate or automate tasks that matter but don’t need your hands.
- Drop anything that adds little or no value.
- Batch small tasks (emails, messages, errands) to avoid jumping between things.
4. Make the Work Smoother
- Block quiet time for your most important work.
- Avoid distractions.
- Aim for “good enough.” Perfect costs too much time for too little benefit.
What You Gain
You stop trying to do everything.
You focus on the right things, the ones that create real impact.
