The Ivy Lee Method: A Timeless Strategy for Working Smarter, Not Harder

In a world full of productivity hacks, time-blocking apps, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed rather than productive. But what if I told you that one of the most effective productivity methods was developed over 100 years ago, and still works today?

Enter The Ivy Lee Method, a simple yet powerful strategy that can help you get more done with less stress.

What Is the Ivy Lee Method?

The Ivy Lee Method is a time-tested productivity technique created in 1918 by Ivy Lee, a renowned productivity consultant. He was hired by Charles M. Schwab, the president of Bethlehem Steel, to help his executives become more efficient. After a quick consultation, Lee provided a simple system, and it worked so well that Schwab reportedly wrote him a $25,000 check (equivalent to over $400,000 today!) in gratitude.

The beauty of this method? It’s ridiculously simple.

How to Use the Ivy Lee Method

At the end of each workday, follow these five easy steps:

Write down the six most important tasks you need to accomplish tomorrow. No more, no less.
Prioritize them in order of importance. The most crucial task goes first.
The next day, focus only on the first task until it’s completely finished. Then, move on to the next one.
Work through your list in order, without multitasking or jumping around.
At the end of the day, move any unfinished tasks to a new list for the following day and repeat the process.

That’s it! No fancy apps, no overwhelming schedules, just a clear, focused plan for the day ahead.

Why the Ivy Lee Method Works

This method is still highly effective today because it eliminates decision fatigue and distractions while keeping you laser-focused on what truly matters. Here’s why it works:

It forces you to prioritize. Instead of getting lost in an endless to-do list, you focus on what’s most important first.
It eliminates multitasking. Research shows that multitasking lowers productivity by up to 40%. The Ivy Lee Method ensures you stay on task.
It reduces decision fatigue. By planning your tasks the night before, you start your day with clarity, saving valuable mental energy.
It creates momentum. Completing tasks in order helps build confidence and motivation, making it easier to stay productive.
It’s simple and easy to implement. Unlike complex productivity systems, the Ivy Lee Method requires no special tools—just a piece of paper and a pen.

Tips for Maximizing the Ivy Lee Method

Keep your list realistic. If you overload it, you’ll set yourself up for failure.
Block distractions. Stay focused on one task at a time, no checking emails or scrolling social media!
Review and refine. Track your progress and adjust your list as needed to find what works best for you.

Give It A Try

If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed by long to-do lists and complicated productivity systems, the Ivy Lee Method might just be the simple solution you need. By prioritizing your tasks, eliminating distractions, and focusing on what truly matters, you’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish in a day.

Have you tried the Ivy Lee Method? Share your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to subscribe for more productivity tips and hacks.

Gina