There are two synergistic approaches for increasing productivity that are inversions of each other (p. 96):
Limit tasks to the important to shorten work time (80/20).
Which 20% of sources are causing 80% of my problems and unhappiness?
Which 20% of sources are resulting in 80% of my desired outcomes and happiness?
Shorten work time to limit tasks to the important (Parkinson’s Law).
Parkinson’s Law dictates that a task will swell in (perceived) importance and complexity in relation to the time allotted for its completion.
Am I being productive or just active? Am I inventing things to do to avoid the important?
Who are the 20% of people who produce 80% of your enjoyment and propel you forward, and which 20% cause 80% of your depression, anger, and second-guessing?
6. The Low-Information Diet
Ignore or redirect all information and interruptions that are irrelevant, unimportant, or unactionable. (p. 107)
Most information is time-consuming, negative, irrelevant to your goals, and outside of your influence. (p. 107)
Develop the habit of asking yourself, “Will I definitely use this information for something immediate and important?” (p. 113)