What the Zeigarnik effect means for your to-do list

The best way to get results is to do one thing at a time. Here is a concrete way to do that: What the Zeigarnik effect means for your to-do list.

Before You Start

Define one outcome. Write down what "done" looks like for this block. One task, one deliverable. If you finish early, extend the work (review, refine) instead of switching.

Remove access to distractions. Close tabs and apps you do not need. Put your phone in another room or in Do Not Disturb. If you use a blocker, set it for this block so the option to check is gone.

During the Block

Stay in one context. No email, no chat, no "quick" look. If you need to look something up, write it on a note and do it after the block. One block means one focus.

If you slip, restart. One check does not ruin the day. Restart the timer or the block and finish the rest without another slip.

After

Take a short break. Then either start another block on the same task or switch deliberately. Do not use the break to "catch up" on feeds or inbox; that trains you to rush through the block.

Try This

Pick one day this week. Apply the rule above. One block, one outcome.

For blocking distracting sites and apps during focus time, StrictBlock can help keep your block clean.