The Two-Minute Rule

The Two-Minute Rule is a concept developed by productivity expert David Allen, author of Getting Things Done.

To put it simply, if a task takes less than two minutes to do, then do it right now. Of course this may not apply in every situation, like when you need to join a scheduled call, but this habit will boost your overall productivity. Let’s say you drive across town to the dentist for your appointment and you’re in a rush to leave but the receptionist asks you to update your new home address, you might as well update it at that moment. You will need to update it anyway, might as well do it now instead of having to call them back later.

Image by Kenny Eliason

The overall concept is to complete tasks when you’re already in a convenient position to do them. If you’re making lunch and waiting on the microwave timer to get to zero, you can use the time to start emptying your dishwasher. If you can't spare two minutes, you will need to empty your dishwasher later when it’s not as convenient or when you need a clean plate.

If you don't do that two-minute task now, you risk the chance of losing the opportunity of the task being only two minutes. Sometimes it might take a little longer than two minutes, but we recommend taking advantage of these moments.

Here are some examples of tasks that usually take less than two minutes to complete:

• Filing documents away

• Putting items back into their designated spot

• Putting garbage/recycling in the correct bin

• Returning your shopping cart

• Restocking finished bottles in the kitchen/bathroom

• Cleaning small spills

It’s okay if you can’t complete it now. You can add these tasks to your to-do list, but following the two-minute rule prevents small tasks from piling up. Of course, there may be other moments that pop up again where a task will only take two minutes to complete, but try to take advantage of these moments as much as possible. You will thank yourself later.

Until next time, stay balanced!