Stop eating frogs. Snack on easy wins first

We all have an obsession with being productive. If we’re not checking off tasks, it can make us feel low and inadequate. It’s as if we tie our self-worth to our productivity, and that’s just not healthy. We need to stop linking our feelings to how much we accomplish and focus instead on what we can actually do today.

Building Momentum

Many of us feel pressure when we think about productivity, which can really get us down. Our worth isn’t tied to our daily achievements, and it’s okay to have off days! Instead of stressing about productivity, let’s shift our focus to, “What can I do today?” This simple question encourages progress rather than perfection.

You’ve probably heard the advice to “eat that frog” first thing in the morning—tackle the toughest task right away. While this approach works for some who can get up at 4 AM, work out, meditate, and send 100 emails by 6 AM, it doesn’t work for everyone, at least not for me.

We need to understand that we require momentum to get into a productive state. So how does one gain momentum? By focusing on the simplest and smallest tasks first. Begin your workday with small, manageable items that you can easily check off your list. This approach creates a sense of accomplishment that motivates you even further. Each small win adds up, making it easier to tackle larger tasks later on. When you build that momentum, it becomes much easier to slip into a flow state, where everything just clicks, and productivity feels effortless.

The Impact of Small Steps

The side benefit is that when we start doing something, no matter how small, we begin to feel that motivation kick in. Motivation often follows action. That first small task can be more important than you realize because it motivates you and gives you the confidence to tackle larger tasks. Even the smallest action can spark motivation. For instance, picking up a pencil and writing something down can get you moving. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike, focus on taking action. It’s often in the act of doing that we find our drive and energy. By taking those first steps, no matter how small, you gain the confidence to tackle larger tasks. This not only boosts your productivity but also reinforces the belief that you can achieve your goals.

In the end, being productive doesn’t have to feel like a burden. By shifting our mindset and focusing on action—especially by starting with simple tasks—we can find our motivation and build momentum. Ultimately, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about making progress and celebrating those small victories along the way.

My Personal Productivity Strategy

When I face a long list of tasks, I find that breaking them down into smaller chunks makes a lot of sense. For instance, if I have a task that might take an hour or two, I try dividing it into 10 to 15-minute segments. By tackling these smaller tasks one by one, I feel a boost in motivation as I make progress.

One strategy that works well for me is focusing on tasks that take no more than 10 minutes. I often resist starting tasks that seem too time-consuming, especially when I’m not in a productive mindset. To overcome this resistance, I aim to remove as many obstacles as possible. Finding tasks that only take a small amount of time tricks my brain into thinking, "This will only take five minutes; I might as well do it."

For example, if I want to work out but feel overwhelmed by the idea of a full hour, I tell myself, "Right now, I’m just going to put on my workout clothes and shoes. If I still don’t feel like working out afterward, I can skip it." This approach alleviates the pressure and gives me the option to opt out if I’m not feeling it. However, I usually find that once I’m in my workout gear, I feel ready to go, and that small action can trigger my workout mindset.

To easily track my tasks, I use a tool called Brisqi. I put them into 5-minute, 10-minute, or 15-minute lists as shown below. I usually start by filtering for the 5-minute tasks and focus solely on those, reminding myself not to worry about the longer ones. Once I complete the 5-minute tasks, I reassess my energy and motivation for the 10-minute tasks, putting the 15-minute ones aside for now. If I feel ready, I’ll choose a 10-minute task and dive in. Within about 30 minutes, I often find myself prepared to tackle larger challenges. I can enter a productive flow state, and within an hour, I’m fully engaged and making significant progress.

I hope these techniques help you become more productive and manage your tasks more effectively. Breaking things down into smaller steps and using tools to track your progress can make a world of difference. Embrace those small wins, and soon you’ll find yourself tackling larger challenges with confidence.