How to be 5x more productive. A best-selling author’s 3–3–3 Method:

Oliver Burkeman is the best-selling author of “Four Thousand Weeks.” Recently, he shared his 3–3–3 Method for a productive day. How do YOU define a productive day?

Until you define it, you’ll never feel like you’re doing enough. Make 3–3–3 your yardstick:

The First 3:

Spend 3 hours of deep work on your most important project. 3–4 hrs of focused work is our cognitive limit.

For best results, complete during your highest state of energy (flow = 500% more effective). Define a specific progress goal. Block out distractions.

The Second 3:

Execute 3 shorter tasks. These are urgent to-dos. Often, they’re “sticky note” items you may be avoiding (some take only a few mins).

Examples:

• Managing: delegating, providing feedback

• Calls, meetings

• Smaller work tasks

The Third 3:

Complete 3 “maintenance activities.” These are items that make your life go smoothly. Schedule time for maintenance (don’t cram elsewhere).

Examples:

• Cleaning (laundry, dishes, etc.)

• Self-Improvement: exercising, journaling

In summary, 3–3–3 Method:

• 3 hours on your most important project

• 3 shorter tasks

• 3 maintenance activities

Defining a “productive day” like 3–3–3 is crucial. Or else you’ll never be at peace (even with excellent output).