Minimal Effort, Maximum Output: Meet the Ivy Lee Method

"Habit is more dependable than inspiration." — Octavia E. Butler

You've probably noticed us mention the Ivy Lee Method as one of our popular minimalist approaches to daily planning. But in a world obsessed with productivity hacks and complicated systems, this method stands out for its elegant simplicity. No apps or endless lists; just six carefully chosen tasks, ranked by importance.

We believe the best way to bring this timeless method into your modern routine is with the right tools. Whether you've been using this method in your planning or are simply curious to begin, our new Ivy Lee Priority Inserts are designed to support this powerful process perfectly. Consider this your gentle invitation to discover just how transformative this simple tool can be.

The History Behind the Method

Let’s rewind to 1918: the world was a different place, but the challenge of getting things done was just as real. That’s when Ivy Lee, a pioneering figure in public relations, shared his remarkably straightforward method with Charles M. Schwab, the head of Bethlehem Steel. 

Schwab, impressed by Lee’s approach, gave it a try with his executive team to increase efficiency and productivity. Schwab was so impressed that he reportedly paid Lee an astonishing sum for the advice (the equivalent of hundreds of thousands of dollars today). Not for a fancy new system, but for a simple idea.

The method’s core was so simple, yet so effective, that it earned lasting respect in the world of business and beyond. Fast forward over a century, and the Ivy Lee Method remains a go-to strategy for individuals seeking clarity and focus in their daily lives.

The Bare Bones of Brilliance

Here’s the amazing part: a productivity method from 1918 is still one of the most relevant, effective, and brilliant tools for managing your day. It’s built on a simple truth: focus fuels progress. Long before smartphones and notification overload, Ivy Lee knew the danger of doing too much at once. Today, this method feels like a breath of fresh air—a minimalist capsule wardrobe for your mind.

So, what makes it so timeless? It comes down to a daily routine that's as simple as it is powerful:

At the end of each workday, you simply jot down the six most important things you want to tackle tomorrow. Just six – that number is actually super important, keeping things really focused. Then, you just take a moment to rank them by what truly matters most. 

Six is a small, manageable number that prevents you from feeling overwhelmed and forces you to make tough, meaningful choices. And by ranking them, you're mentally committing to a clear path forward, avoiding a decision fatigue that can stall your day before it even begins.

When your workday kicks off, you dive right into that very first task on your list. The idea is to really give it your full attention until it's done before you even think about the next one. It's about resisting that pull to jump around or get sidetracked by new tasks. 

And if something doesn't get finished?It just rolls right over to the top of your list for the next day, making sure those crucial items never get forgotten.

The method is timeless because it meets you where you are, giving your day a strong, flexible workflow and daily rhythm.

Ivy Lee Priority Inserts by Cloth & Paper

Our Ivy Lee Priority Inserts and Ivy Lee Sidebar Sticky Notes are designed to be the perfect tools for this method. They feature a clean, minimalist layout with six priority slots to help you stay focused and organized. The premium paper gives them a polished feel, so planning your day feels a little more special.

They’re designed to work with most functional planner systems, which means you can easily add them to whatever setup you’re already using.

Getting started is easy. You can plan your day the night before or take a few minutes each morning to set your priorities. If you want to build on the routine, try pairing it with journaling or habit tracking. It’s a simple way to create a system that covers more of your day.

At the end of the week, take a moment to look back. Reflecting on what worked (and what didn’t) can help you spot patterns and understand how you work best. Sometimes, that small step makes all the difference.

Make Your Days Count

The Ivy Lee Method is more than just a productivity hack; it's a mindset shift. It invites you to get clear on what truly matters and commit to it, cutting through the noise and indecision that zaps your energy.

If you’re tired of chasing a never-ending to-do list, try this method and tools for just one week. You might be surprised by how much you accomplish when you give your attention to what’s most important.

We'd love to hear how you're making your days count! What's your go-to method for staying focused and intentional? Share your tips with us in the comments.

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