I love the visual impact of Covey’s gallon-sized jar demonstration. He first adds large rocks, then layers in pebbles between them, before adding gravel, sand, and filling any remaining space with water. He used the presentation to illustrate the importance of beginning with the biggest and most important pieces. If he filled the container with sand, there wouldn’t be room for the stuff that creates a life meaningful.

I use this principle when I am planning out my weekly and daily agendas. The important jobs, the non-negotiables I need to advance my goals, I schedule first. Often these big rocks may require several days or weeks to complete, but they are my focus. Once I organize my rocks, I insert tinier components from my list. I fill the spaces in between with gravel and smaller items. These are nice to finish, but there is no penalty if they remain undone.

By approaching my organizer in this manner, I ensure I accomplish essential tasks. Should I find myself at an impasse, or with a project finished sooner than expected, I’m not left wondering what do I work on next? Instead, I move to the less significant stones, addressing each one until they are completed. If a critical task requires more time, I bump everything down the line.

How do you schedule your day?

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer