Habit
Method
Cards
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Ivy Lee Method
The Ivy Lee Method
In 1918, productivity consultant Ivy Lee presented Charles M. Schwab with a straightforward approach:
- List Making: Each evening, write down six tasks for the next day.
- Prioritization: Organize these tasks from most to least important.
- Focused Execution: Begin with the primary task the next day. Only move to the next after completing the current task.
- Rollover: Transfer any unfinished tasks to the next day's list.
Schwab implemented this method with his executives, and the results were transformative. The clear prioritization and single-task focus led to heightened productivity and efficiency for Bethlehem Steel—and Schwab paid Lee the equivalent of $400,000 in today's money.
The key takeaway? Simple, consistent prioritization and focus can drive remarkable results.
- List Making: Each evening, write down six tasks for the next day.
- Prioritization: Organize these tasks from most to least important.
- Focused Execution: Begin with the primary task the next day. Only move to the next after completing the current task.
- Rollover: Transfer any unfinished tasks to the next day's list.
Schwab implemented this method with his executives, and the results were transformative. The clear prioritization and single-task focus led to heightened productivity and efficiency for Bethlehem Steel—and Schwab paid Lee the equivalent of $400,000 in today's money.
The key takeaway? Simple, consistent prioritization and focus can drive remarkable results.
