Eisenhower Matrix – how it helped me

I’ve read a lot about time management but nothing really helped me until I came across the Eisenhower Matrix.

It basically consists of four squares which can be filled with different tasks:

1. The first square has to be red.
   It contains urgent and important tasks which have to be done immediately. If you do not complete them there will be bad consequences.
   You should try to keep this square empty.

2. The second square should be green.
   There you can write down tasks which are important but not urgent.
   Example given: Preparing for an exam. It’s important but you have enough time to spare.
   This square may contain your life goals, therefore it’s quite important.

3. The third square should be orange.
   It contains tasks that are not important but urgent. They can be delegated.

4. The fourth square should be blue.
   There you can write down tasks that are not important and not urgent.
   Those are ‘timewasters’, things like hobbies, watching movies etc. or tasks that you might want to do but it’s okay if you don’t.

Personally I mostly use the first square. I try to keep it blank at all times! Ever since I started doing so I get a lot more things done which I probably ‘wouldn’t have time for’ or ‘wouldn’t be in the mood for’.
I’ve purchased a notebook solely for this purpose. Just draw two lines, horizontally and vertically and put in the tasks for the next 3-7 days.

I hope this lifehack will help you too!