The Art of Prioritizing: How to Master Your Day with the Ivy Lee Method, MITs, and ‘Eat That Frog’

Watch this episode of 'Time Is Yours' here and learn how to prioritize like a pro!

Do you ever feel like you have a plan, but your day still gets derailed by distractions and unexpected tasks? It's a common challenge. In a fast-paced world, the real secret to staying productive isn't just having a plan—it's knowing how to ensure the most important things get done before the chaos takes over.

In our previous posts, we learned how to gain clarity by setting SMART goals and using the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks. We also explored how to work deeply and avoid distractions with the Pomodoro Technique and the principles of Deep Work.

But what happens when the unexpected strikes? Today, we're going to tackle that very challenge by looking at three simple but powerful methods that cut through the noise and help you prioritize your day with intention and purpose. Think of these as tools for your personal workflow—not rigid rules, but flexible strategies you can adapt to find what works best for you.

Part 1: The Ivy Lee Method

The Ivy Lee Method is a time-tested strategy that's over a hundred years old and yet still pure genius. It’s designed to help you focus and eliminate decision fatigue.

Here's how it works:

1. At the end of each workday, write down the six most important tasks you need to accomplish tomorrow.

2. Number them in order of priority, from most important to least important.

3. The next day, start by working on only the first task. Do not move on to anything else—not emails, not a quick browse—until that task is completely finished.

4. Once the first task is done, move on to the second, and so on.

5. Any unfinished tasks get rolled over to a new list for the next day.

The power of this method lies in its simplicity. By making your prioritization decisions the night before, you wake up knowing exactly what you need to do, allowing you to dive straight into focused work without a moment's hesitation.

Part 2: The MITs (Most Important Tasks)

Sometimes, a list of six tasks can still feel overwhelming. This is where your MITs, or Most Important Tasks, come in. This method is an excellent companion to the Ivy Lee Method.

From your list of six, I want you to circle your top three. These are the tasks that, if you accomplish them, will make your day a success—no matter what else happens. Your MITs don't all have to be work-related. They can be a mix of professional, personal, and self-care tasks. For example:

• Work: Finish the monthly report.

• Personal: Start reading that book you've been wanting to start.

• Relationship: Go for a long walk with your partner.

Focusing on just three things gives you a mental "north star" for the day, providing a feeling of control and accomplishment without the stress of an endless to-do list.

Part 3: ‘Eat That Frog’

The final method has a funny name, but it's incredibly powerful. The "frog" is that one task you’re dreading—the one you know you’ll procrastinate on all day long because it feels too big, too difficult, or too boring to start.

The rule is simple: You "eat that frog" first thing in the morning.

Tackle that most challenging task when your energy and focus are at their freshest. Once you’ve conquered your biggest hurdle for the day, you'll experience an unmatched sense of relief and momentum. The rest of your day will feel lighter and more manageable, knowing you've already accomplished the most difficult thing on your list.

Conclusion: Live with Intention and Purpose

These aren't just productivity hacks; they're daily habits that help you live with more intention and purpose. By choosing what to focus on and tackling your most important work first, you can be proactive rather than reactive, creating a life that feels more in control.

To see these concepts in action, be sure to check out the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BGHd9bLHDog