Productivity · 2014
Essentialism
by Greg McKeown
The disciplined pursuit of less, so the things that matter get your best effort.
9 min read
The big picture
McKeown shows that most people are busy with the trivial many and neglect the vital few. Essentialism is a way of thinking: explore, eliminate and execute only what matters most. It replaces 'How can I fit it all in?' with 'What is truly essential?'
Five key ideas
- 1
Less but better
Doing more is not the same as achieving more. Focus your energy on the few things that make the biggest difference.
- 2
Choose, don't just react
If you do not decide your priorities, other people will decide them for you. Choice is a power you must use.
- 3
Learn to say no gracefully
Every yes is a no to something else. Decline politely and firmly so you can protect your real priorities.
- 4
Protect your sleep and your mind
Rest, play and quiet thinking time improve judgment. They are not luxuries; they are tools.
- 5
Remove obstacles to what matters
Look for the smallest friction holding back your key goals and clear it, rather than pushing harder.
Put it into practice
- List your commitments and cancel or delegate one that is not essential.
- Before agreeing to a request, wait a day and ask: is this a clear yes?
- Block one hour each week for quiet thinking about your top priority.
Who should read it
Overcommitted people who feel busy all day yet unsure what they achieved.
How to apply it in daily life
Morning
Choose the one thing that matters most today.
During the day
Say a polite no to at least one non-essential request.
Evening
Remove one commitment or object you no longer need.
Next summary
Getting Things Done