1-3-5 RULE : The reliable way to tame your to-dos
The 1-3-5 rule is one of the most user-friendly organization techniques available.
It is basic, straightforward, and elementary just like the name suggests, 1-3-5.
All you need to know is how to count, and you are already a pro at the 1-3-5 rule. Just like that.
Curious, how? Let me lay it out for you.
1-3-5 rule?
Under the 1-3-5 rule, you rank your to-do list and pick 1 big thing, 3 medium things, and 5 small things that you need to do for the day.
That’s it, you get them done and you have your day’s progress.
It is practically a no-brainer.
Why you might want to go 1-3-5
The main reason as to why you should implement this rule in your to-do list is because it is balanced, holistic, and realistic.
Many a time, we find ourselves put off by a looong to-do list with tasks of varying degrees of importance and size. We are consistently disappointed when we fail to cross out our to-dos because we underestimated the size of a task, or set unrealistic goals to be completed in a short period of time.
The 1-3-5 rule puts an end to this. It guarantees a well-rounded progress in life so that you don’t overlook the small things, and at the same time don’t burn yourself out.
It is perfect.
How to 1-3-5?
- Make a to-do list with a productivity method of your choice.
- Rank your tasks based on their size and importance.
- Pick 1 big, important task. Ex. setting up the blog your boss asked for by today.
- Pick 3 medium, less-important tasks. Ex. taking your dog to the vet.
- Pick 5 small, important/not so important tasks. Ex. going out with your co-worker.
- Make a new list with the selected tasks and schedule the rest for the coming days.
By means of such a balanced routine, the 1-3-5 ascertains that harmony exists in your life, your mind, and your plans.
It takes seriously the golden rule ‘too much of anything is good for nothing’ and complies with it.
