Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list before the day even begins? The Ivy Lee Method offers a simple yet powerful way to plan your day with clarity and intention. This 100-year-old productivity strategy is still relevant today because it helps you focus on what truly matters—and finish your work with less stress.
What Is the Ivy Lee Method?
First developed in 1918 by productivity consultant Ivy Lee, this method helped executives at Bethlehem Steel Corporation become significantly more effective. The process is deceptively simple:
At the end of each workday, write down the six most important tasks to accomplish tomorrow. Then, prioritize them in order of importance. The next day, start with task #1 and work down the list. Only move to the next task when the current one is complete.
Why the Ivy Lee Method Works
- Eliminates decision fatigue: You start your day knowing exactly what to do.
- Promotes deep focus: You work on one important task at a time.
- Forces prioritization: You choose what’s truly important, not just what’s urgent.
- Builds momentum: Completing top-priority tasks gives a sense of accomplishment.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Ivy Lee Method
1. End Your Day by Writing Tomorrow’s Top 6 Tasks
- Reflect on unfinished tasks and new priorities.
- Write down only six tasks that are most important for tomorrow.
2. Rank Each Task by Importance
- Number your tasks from 1 to 6 based on their significance.
- Ask yourself:
- Which task moves the needle most?
- What must be done tomorrow (not someday)?
- Which task would relieve the most stress if completed?
3. The Next Day, Start with Task #1
- Focus 100% on task #1 until it’s done.
- Then move to task #2, and so on.
4. Don’t Multitask
You must finish the current task before moving to the next.
If you don’t finish all six, no problem—just carry them over and re-prioritize for the next day.
5. Reflect, Review, and Repeat
- Review what was completed and what wasn’t.
- Ask: What distracted me? What worked well?
- Then create your next day’s list.
Tips to Make the Ivy Lee Method Even More Effective
- ✅ Use a planner or notebook: Writing by hand reinforces clarity and commitment.
- ✅ Try digital tools: Apps like Todoist or Notion can help if you prefer digital tracking.
- ✅ Set time blocks: Combine this method with time blocking for even more structure.
- ✅ Use it with teams: Encourage your team to use Ivy Lee to align on top priorities each day.
- ✅ Pair it with Pomodoro: Use the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused while working on each task.
Example Ivy Lee Daily Task List
- Finish presentation for Friday meeting
- Respond to top client’s email
- Review Q2 budget forecast
- Write blog post draft
- Update product roadmap
- Schedule team 1-on-1s
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- ❌ Listing too many tasks: Stick to six max. It forces you to choose wisely.
- ❌ Skipping prioritization: Order matters more than quantity.
- ❌ Letting small tasks sneak in: Don’t mistake busyness for progress.
- ❌ Trying to do all six perfectly: Progress beats perfection.
Internal Tools to Support the Ivy Lee Method
- 📌 How to Measure Productivity: Personal vs. Professional
- 🧠 Eat the Frog Method: Boost Your Productivity with This Simple Time Hack
FAQ
Q: Is the Ivy Lee Method better than time blocking?
A: They’re different tools. Ivy Lee helps you choose what to do; time blocking helps you schedule when to do it. They work well together.
Q: What if I don’t finish all 6 tasks?
A: That’s okay! Move them to the next day and reassess their priority. The goal is progress, not perfection.
Q: Can I use Ivy Lee for personal goals too?
A: Absolutely! Use it for fitness, self-improvement, or even errands. The clarity it brings is universal.
Q: Should I include recurring tasks?
A: Yes—but only if they’re critical. Avoid adding “check email” unless it’s tied to a specific, important task.
Q: Does this method work for students or freelancers?
A: Definitely. Anyone who manages their own time can benefit from the simplicity of Ivy Lee.
Conclusion
The Ivy Lee Method is a powerful yet refreshingly simple way to plan your day. By limiting your focus to the top six tasks—and tackling them one at a time—you reduce stress, improve decision-making, and actually get more done.
Whether you’re a busy professional, entrepreneur, student, or team leader, this method helps you prioritize what truly matters.
✨ Start tonight: Write down your top six tasks. Try it for a week. You might be surprised how much clarity and control you gain.
