How to Get 8 Hours of Work Done in 4 Hours Yes It is Actually Possible
1. Use the 3 3 3 Method
From Oliver Burkeman:
3 hours of deep work
3 shorter tasks
3 maintenance or admin tasks
That is your day.
You get more done by doing less on purpose.
2. Timeblock like a maniac
The best productivity hack.
Create fixed time slots for your tasks.
Put them on your calendar.
Stick to them without mercy.
3. Set absurdly clear and specific goals
Instead of: Work on pitch deck
Try: Draft 5 slides with bullet points
Clarity removes the intimidation of starting.
4. Banish distractions
Put your phone out of reach.
Turn off notifications.
Close extra tabs.
You do not suck at focusing.
Your environment makes it feel impossible.
5. Use a timer
If you want to lock in, set a timer.
Example rhythm:
45 minutes on
10 minutes off
There is real power in committing to one task at a time.
6. Eliminate, Automate, Delegate
Rules of thumb:
If the cost of a task is higher than the benefit:
Eliminate it.
If it is repetitive and low effort:
Automate it.
If it is not the best use of your time:
Delegate it.
7. End your day with an After Action Review
Ask yourself:
1. What did I accomplish?
2. What could I have done better?
3. What should I adjust for tomorrow?
8. By the numbers
Average worker checks email 74 times per day.
Average person picks up their phone 352 times per day.
Average person spends 2.5 hours on social media per day.
People do not lack time.
They lack focus.
| How to Get 8 Hours of Work Done in 4 Hours Yes It is Actually Possible |