Every morning, you sit down with a fresh to-do list — but deciding where to begin can be overwhelming. Should you aim for an easy win to build momentum or dive into the hardest task first? The truth is, the way you start your day can set the tone for everything that follows. Let’s explore strategies to help you choose what to work on first and supercharge your productivity.
The Case for Easy Wins
Build Momentum with Small Victories
Starting your day with a quick, easy task can create a sense of accomplishment, giving you the motivation to tackle bigger challenges. Psychologists call this the “progress principle” — the idea that even small wins can boost your mood and productivity.
Examples of Easy Wins
- Responding to a simple email
- Organizing your workspace
- Completing a short task with a clear outcome
This strategy works well when you need to overcome procrastination or warm up for the day ahead.
Why “Eating the Frog” Works
Tackle the Hardest Task First
The “eat the frog” method, popularized by Brian Tracy, suggests starting your day with the most challenging or unpleasant task. The logic is simple: once the hardest task is out of the way, the rest of your day feels easier.
Benefits of Eating the Frog
- Reduces anxiety: You’re no longer dreading a difficult task.
- Improves focus: Tackling tough tasks requires mental clarity, which is often strongest in the morning.
- Boosts productivity: You gain momentum by addressing significant work early.
This approach is perfect for deadline-driven projects or tasks requiring deep focus.
Learn more about the “eat the frog” strategy at Brian Tracy’s Blog.
The One Strategy That Outshines the Rest
While easy wins and eating the frog are effective, the best strategy is to align your first task with your most important goal. This method, inspired by The One Thing by Gary Keller, helps you prioritize what matters most.
Identify Your High-Impact Task
Ask yourself: What’s the one task I can do today that will make everything else easier or unnecessary? This high-impact task is where you should start.
Schedule Focus Time
Set aside your most productive hours—whether it’s early morning or late evening—to work on this high-priority task without distractions.
How to Decide: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Review Your To-Do List
Take a few minutes to write down everything you need to do. Highlight tasks that are urgent and important.
2. Apply the Eisenhower Matrix
Sort tasks into categories:
- Do Now: Urgent and important tasks.
- Decide: Important but not urgent tasks.
- Delegate: Urgent but less important tasks.
- Delete: Non-urgent, non-important distractions.
Learn more about the Eisenhower Matrix in “How to Use the Eisenhower Matrix for Task Management”.
3. Start with Your Priority Task
Begin with the task that has the greatest impact on your goals, whether it’s the hardest or the one that builds momentum.
Wrapping Up: Choose Wisely, Start Strong
The way you start your workday can set the tone for your productivity. Whether you choose an easy win, eat the frog, or tackle your most impactful task, the key is to align your choice with your goals. Experiment with these strategies to find what works best for you, and watch your productivity soar.
Start your day with clarity and purpose by choosing the right task to tackle first. Your productivity—and peace of mind—will thank you!
