What to Do When There’s Too Much to Do
Ever feel like your to-do list is running your life?
Like you’re working harder and longer, yet barely scratching the surface?
Same here.
That’s why I want to share a fresh perspective: doing less to do better.
It’s not only about productivity hacks, either. It’s really about reclaiming your time and mental peace while still crushing your goals.
And the best part?
You don’t have to do everything to get ahead.
By reducing unnecessary tasks and focusing on what truly matters, you can free up 90 minutes a day.
Imagine what you could do with that time
spend it with family
work on a passion project
or just, you know, breathe!
Let’s talk about how to make this happen.
Welcome to the Simplify to Thrive Method™—a straightforward system to help you get more done by doing less.
The Ultimate Guide to Doing Less, Better
Simplify to Thrive Method™: A Practical Plan to Get It Together
The Simplify to Thrive Method™ is about stepping back, simplifying your workload, and working smarter.
It’s a repeatable process that fits right into your daily routine.
Here’s how it works:
1. Figure Out What Actually Matters
Newsflash!
Not everything on your list is important.
Step one is getting honest about what really needs your attention.
Go through your tasks and:
Prioritize what’s essential.
Delay or delegate what isn’t.
Completely drop the stuff that’s just noise.
Common time-wasters to eliminate:
Obsessing over email
Scrolling social media
Too many meetings
Pro tip
Create a Not-To-Do List.
Write down the things you refuse to spend time on and keep it visible. This one tip alone can save your sanity.
2. Block Time for What Matters
Once you’ve identified what’s important, it’s time to make room for it.
Block out time on your calendar and guard those hours like gold. Say no to unnecessary meetings, batch similar tasks, and protect your focused work time.
3. Protect Your Focus
Multitasking doesn’t work. It splits your focus and slows you down.
Instead try this:
Shut out distractions (hello, airplane mode).
Work in focused bursts (try the Pomodoro Technique).
Give each task your undivided attention.
4. Handle the Incoming Chaos
Emails, notifications, random tasks—they Never. Stop.
To avoid drowning, set up systems to manage the constant inflow:
Use filters to sort your emails automatically.
Set specific times for checking messages.
Keep your files and notes organized for easy access.
5. Wrap Things Up
Getting started is one thing; finishing is another.
Make it a habit to:
Reflect on what worked and what didn’t.
Streamline your processes to avoid repetitive headaches.
Address bottlenecks and inefficiencies head-on.
6. Take Care of Your Energy
You can’t be productive if you’re running on empty.
Make sleep, good food, and movement non-negotiables. And don’t forget to carve out time for the things that make you happy.
Read More: How to Avoid Burnout
Why This System Works
The beauty of the Simplify to Thrive Method™ is that it’s not a one-and-done thing.
This method is a process you can keep coming back to!
Each step builds on the last, creating a cycle of continuous improvement. It’s simple, sustainable, and practical.
And when you stop wasting time on stuff that doesn’t matter, you can save up to 90 minutes a day.
Seriously.
You’ll get more done in less time, and you’ll finally have the space to enjoy your life outside of work.
Figure Out What Actually Matters
Let’s dig into the first step where you start deciding what’s worth your time and energy.
This is where you stop reacting to your workload and start taking control.
How to Prioritize
1. Triage Your Tasks
Sort tasks into three categories
essential
non-essential
and irrelevant.
Focus only on the first.
2. Separate Your Lists
Use a master list for long-term goals and a daily list for urgent, high-impact tasks.
3. Cut the Fluff
If a task doesn’t move the needle, let it go.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Letting email or other people dictate your day.
Procrastinating on important tasks by doing easy, trivial ones.
Taking on work that isn’t yours.
Quick Tips for Figuring out what matters
At the end of each day, ask yourself: Was I productive, or just busy?
Regularly reassess which tasks are truly worth your time.
Delegate what doesn’t require your expertise.
Use a brain dump to clear your head and organize your priorities.
The goal here is to stop wasting time on things that don’t matter, so you can focus on what does.
Remember, busy doesn’t always mean productive.
Start Small, but Start Now
Breaking free from the cycle of overwhelm isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely doable.
Start small:
triage your tasks
create a Not-To-Do List
or block out time for focused work
Even a tiny shift in how you approach your day can make a huge difference.
In the next blog, I’ll share tips on how to schedule your time and work with your calendar instead of against it.
Until then, give yourself permission to simplify and watch how much lighter your life feels!
You’ve got this!