Some of the most productive days I’ve ever had were days when I only planned to do one or two things. I don’t mean that strictly literally – basic chores like making meals, cleaning up, and working out (once you’re used to it) don’t count. I’m talking about the rest of it, work and big errands and projects. Here, less is more.

When you only try to do a couple of things, it’s much easier to get started. It’s less daunting than having a hundred smaller things to do. Just this one. Just these two. They might be big, but as soon as you’ve tackled one, you’re a fourth (or more) done. That’s remarkable.

The funny thing is, when you decide to only do or two important things, you can get a phenomenal amount done. You can focus. You can dive deep and really get into them. You can finish. Compared to running around putting out a thousand little fires, it’s much more productive, not to mention satisfying.

That’s my challenge to you. Instead of trying to do a million things every day, pick one or two important things and do those. If you want, start out small. Try it just one day this week. Do try it, though. I think you’ll find a lot gets done when you stop running around and start working.