1-3-5 Rule

The 1-3-5 Rule is a productivity technique that helps you organize your daily tasks without feeling overwhelmed. Instead of creating endless to-do lists, you focus on just nine carefully chosen tasks each day: one big task, three medium tasks, and five small tasks.

Think of your day like a balanced meal: the big task is your main course - substantial and satisfying. The medium tasks are your side dishes - important but not overwhelming. The small tasks are like garnishes - they complete the experience but don’t dominate your plate.

The beauty of the 1-3-5 Rule lies in its simplicity. By limiting yourself to nine tasks total, you avoid the paralysis that comes from staring at a never-ending list. Research shows that our brains can only focus on high-efficiency work for about 2-4 hours per day, making the single big task approach particularly effective.

Start by doing a “brain dump” of everything you need to accomplish. Don’t worry about organizing at this stage - just get it all out of your head and onto paper or a digital note. Include anything that occupies your mental space.

Tip: Create an inbox for your to-dos where you write tasks as they come to mind throughout the day. This way, you’ll have everything at hand when you sit down to plan your day.

Sort your tasks into three categories based on their complexity and importance:

• Big Tasks: Require significant time, effort, or concentration. Choose tasks that, if completed, would make your day feel successful.
• Medium Tasks: Important but less demanding than your big task. These tasks support your bigger goals but don’t require the same level of deep focus.
• Small Tasks: Quick, routine items that keep life running smoothly. While individually minor, these tasks prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

Choose one big task, three medium tasks, and five small tasks for your day. When selecting your big task, ask yourself: “If I could only accomplish one thing today, what would make the biggest difference?” For medium tasks, focus on items that support your main objectives or move important projects forward. Small tasks should be things you can complete quickly during breaks or transition periods.

Plan to do the big task when your energy and focus are at their peak. It’s often best to do it first thing in the morning or during your most productive hours. That way, even if unexpected issues arise, you’ll have accomplished something meaningful.

Spread your medium tasks throughout your day and tackle them when your energy naturally dips but you can still work productively. Save small tasks for the end of the day or use them as quick wins between other activities.

• Start each day by reviewing and adjusting your list based on new priorities or unexpected developments.
• Think about how tasks relate to each other. Some medium or small tasks might be useful to complete before tackling your big task.
• Consider your natural energy patterns when scheduling tasks. If you’re most alert in the morning, tackle your big task then. If you prefer working on complex projects in the afternoon, adjust accordingly.
• Combine the 1-3-5 rule with time blocking techniques. Assign specific time slots to each category of tasks. Ensure your big task gets the longest uninterrupted block when your energy is highest.
• Remember, the 1-3-5 Rule is a tool, not a rigid system. Some days you might complete more tasks, others fewer. The key is maintaining focus on what matters most while making steady progress.