In a world filled with countless productivity methods—Pomodoro timers, time-blocking, and endless to-do lists—I’ve found something different. Something that actually works for me.

I don’t follow a million productivity hacks. No rigid schedules. No overwhelming systems. Just a simple, realistic approach that helps me get things done without burning out.

If you’re tired of complicated methods that feel impossible to maintain, here’s what works for me.

1. Keep Your To-Do List Small and Focused

I never write down more than four tasks for the day—sometimes even fewer. Here’s why:

I used to list 15+ tasks, thinking I’d power through them all. But by the end of the day, I’d barely finish half and feel disappointed. That disappointment led to procrastination, making me even less productive over time.

Now, I break my tasks into three categories:

• Big Task (5–6 hours) – This is the main thing I need to complete. For me, that could be editing a new reel (which takes way longer than you’d think) or working on a website update.

• Medium Task (1 hour) – Something like prepping content for the next four days or fitting in a workout.

• Two Small Tasks – Quick wins, like responding to clients or sending out emails.

This structure helps me stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Forget Time-Blocking—Work by Priorities

I tried time-blocking once, and it was a disaster. It might work for people with fixed schedules, but as a full-time creator, it just stressed me out.

Instead, I work based on priorities:

• Big Task First – I start with the most important task while my energy is highest.

• Medium Task Next – Once that’s done, I move on to something easier.

• Small Tasks Last – At the end of the day, I knock out quick tasks.

This method allows me to work with my natural energy flow instead of forcing myself into strict time slots.

3. Set Real Deadlines (and Make Them Public)

Deadlines are my secret weapon. Right now, I’m working on Second Brain 6.0 and Creator Brain 4.0, both with a hard deadline of December 31st. Why? Because people know about it. If I don’t deliver, I lose trust—and trust is everything.

If you struggle with finishing tasks, set a real deadline. Even better, make it public. That added pressure will force you to act.

4. Eliminate Distractions (Especially Your Phone)

Want to instantly boost your productivity? Put your phone out of reach.

I never keep mine on my desk. I’ll leave it on the bed or in another room. Because the second it’s within reach, I’ll check DMs, scroll through comments, and fall into the black hole of notifications.

Also, I turned off notifications six years ago. No pop-ups, no constant buzzing. If someone calls me, I don’t even see it. And guess what? I’ve never been more focused.

If you’re easily distracted, try keeping your phone out of sight while working—you’ll be amazed at the difference.

5. Earn Your Rest

I don’t take breaks until I’ve earned them. If a task takes 12 hours, I work until it’s done. But when I do rest, I make sure to enjoy it fully.

Here’s the key: When you rest, actually rest. Don’t spend your break stressing about unfinished tasks. Step away completely.

After major work sprints, I take a short vacation—3 to 5 days—where I disconnect from everything. I visit my childhood village, reset, and come back stronger.

The Bottom Line

I don’t follow fancy productivity systems. I don’t force myself into rigid structures. What I do is simple:

• Keep my to-do list small and focused

• Prioritize tasks instead of time-blocking

• Set strict, public deadlines

• Eliminate distractions (especially my phone)

• Earn my rest and truly enjoy it