Urgent? Important?

The Eisenhower matrix, also known as the Eisenhower box or Eisenhower decision principle, is a productivity tool that helps individuals prioritize tasks based on their level of urgency and importance. It is named after former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was known for his ability to effectively manage his time and priorities.

The matrix is divided into four quadrants:

1. Urgent and important: Tasks that are both urgent and important should be done first. These are the tasks that you should tackle immediately and with a high level of attention, as they have a significant impact on achieving your goals and have a deadline. Examples of such tasks are meeting with a client or completing a report due today.
2. Important but not urgent: Tasks that are important but not urgent should be scheduled. These tasks are important for achieving your goals, but they don’t have a deadline. Examples of such tasks are building a network, reading professional books or developing a new skill.
3. Urgent but not important: Tasks that are urgent but not important can be delegated. These tasks may be pressing but don’t directly contribute to achieving your goals. Examples of such tasks are responding to non-critical emails or going through low-priority reports.
4. Not urgent and not important: Tasks that are neither urgent nor important should be eliminated. These tasks are typically distractions that do not contribute to achieving your goals and can be discarded. Examples of such tasks are non-essential social media browsing or watching non-essential videos.

By using the Eisenhower matrix to prioritize your tasks, you can focus on the most important and urgent tasks while avoiding distractions, you will be able to manage your time effectively, work efficiently and work on the things that matter.