# Effectiveness
7 items
80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle)
Principle stating that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts. Applied to time management by identifying and focusing on the vital few activities that produce most of your desired outcomes.
90/10 Outcomes Rule
A productivity principle stating that 10% of your actions account for 90% of your outcomes, related to the Pareto Principle but specifically applied to daily activity selection, suggesting strategic focus on the highest-impact 10% of possible tasks.
90/10 Productivity Rule
Time management principle stating that 10% of activities produce 90% of outcomes. This rule, also known as the Pareto Principle applied to time, encourages identifying and prioritizing high-impact tasks while eliminating or delegating low-value work.
Busyness vs Productivity Distinction
Critical recognition that being busy doesn't equal being productive. Busyness involves constant activity and filled schedules, while productivity focuses on meaningful outcomes and results. Distinguishing between them is the first step toward time mastery, emphasizing intentional work over activity theater.
Charles Schwab's $25,000 Check for Ivy Lee
The famous 1918 story where Bethlehem Steel president Charles Schwab paid productivity consultant Ivy Lee $25,000 (equivalent to $400,000 in 2015) after three months of using the six-task prioritization method.
Productivity Paradox 2026
The modern phenomenon where increased productivity tools and time tracking don't always lead to better outcomes, highlighting the importance of focusing on effectiveness over mere efficiency.
Time Management Matrix (Covey)
Four-quadrant framework by Stephen Covey categorizing activities by urgency and importance. Also known as the Eisenhower Matrix, it helps distinguish between urgent/important tasks to focus on Quadrant II activities for long-term effectiveness.