time concept
This tip comes from David Allen, the author of the bestselling book Getting Things Done.

The Two Minute Rule in a nutshell!

If a task can be done in less than two minutes, like putting an article of clothing where it belongs or filing a piece of paper, just do it, rather than:

  • Putting it off (or in a stack)
  • Writing it on a list
  • Moving it somewhere else
  • Putting something on top of it

Try it! You will be amazed at how many things can be done in just two minutes!

The time you designate when using the technique is not set in stone: if it works better for you in some circumstances to have a 1 minute or a 5 minute rule, go for it!

How to know how long things ACTUALLY take!

Increase your time awareness by timing routine tasks to see how long they actually take. As an example, I used to resist emptying my dishwasher, so I decided to time it and see how long it took. It took 5 minutes! Now when resistance surfaces, I say to myself, “it will only take five minutes.” Then I turn on NPR and just do it.

Be more mindful

As you go through your week, you might notice habits that create or sustain clutter in your home or office. See if any unhelpful habits can be modified by applying the 2 minute rule. 🙂

Don’t knock it til you try it! 

Try timing a few tasks that you do (or resist doing) in your home or office. And be sure to share your timing experiences with us!

What took longer than you expected?  What took a shorter time than you anticipated?

Discover more ways to mindfully declutter your home or office here! >>