How to Get More Done in Less Time: The Power of a 1-Minute Rule

We've all heard the saying, "We all have the same 24 hours in a day." While it’s true that time is equal for everyone, how we use it and what we prioritize is what truly sets us apart.

Our days may look very different depending on our responsibilities, goals, and routines, but there’s one thing we all have in common: we often feel like there’s just never enough time to get everything done. It’s easy to tell ourselves we’ll do things later, or that we don’t have the time for small tasks. But what if I told you there’s a way to get more done in less time?

The 1-Minute Rule: A Simple Shift in Perspective

I was listening to a podcast recently (I wish I could remember which one!) when I heard an interviewee say something that really struck me: “If I can do it in less than a minute, I’m doing it now.”

Think about that for a second. How often do you find yourself avoiding small tasks because you think they’ll take too much time, or because you're already busy with bigger projects?

It’s so easy to push things off with the excuse of "I’ll do it later" or "I don’t have time." But the truth is, many of the tasks we put off can be done in under a minute. And by not tackling them right away, we’re only adding to our mental load, creating unnecessary stress, and allowing small tasks to pile up.

Why the 1-Minute Rule Works

The beauty of this rule is its simplicity. It encourages us to think in terms of action rather than procrastination. When you ask yourself, “Can I do this in less than a minute?” you start to realize how much you can accomplish with very little effort. This tiny shift in mindset can help you overcome the urge to delay tasks, and instead, get things done in the moment.

Whether it’s responding to a quick email, switching a load of laundry, or tidying up your desk, these small tasks don’t take much time but can add up over the course of the day. By tackling them immediately, you prevent them from becoming overwhelming or adding to your to-do list.

Today’s Challenge: Try It for Yourself

Take a moment to think about that annoying task you keep putting off. Maybe it's something simple like responding to an email or cleaning off your desk. Now, set a timer for one minute and see how much you can get done.

I promise you—it's amazing what you can accomplish in 60 seconds. You might just be surprised at how many little things you’ve been avoiding that can actually be handled in a blink of an eye.