3 3 3 method productivity to slay your goals

Find out about the 3 3 3 method productivity, and how to use it.  It’s a handy technique for anyone.  Working smarter, you can reach your goals for better success.

When I started as a solopreneur 12 years ago (updated), I felt overwhelmed.  I also realized that if I didn’t hold myself accountable, I might miss my set goals.  I also started blogging to develop my skills, find a community, and support my readers.

Through my blog, I share self-improvement tips.  For nearly 8 years (updated)  I’ve been consistently publishing articles.  Working smarter is one of the popular topics that support my readers.

As part of my personal development, I explore productivity techniques.  Applying them, I find the benefits.  I also share them on my blog.  In this article, I’ll give blogger examples for applying the method, and list some related techniques.

The 333 productivity method

When I started researching the method, I came across Oliver Burkeman, whose page you can view on Wikipedia.  The technique supports better time management and achieving goals.

What is the 3 3 3 method for managing time?  In a nutshell, it’s about ‘3 hours, 3 tasks, and 3 activities’.  It’s a simple idea that can help greatly.

How to reach your set goals 

I’ll first list the how-tos.  Some examples will follow, to illustrate.  This will mostly be in a blogging context.  However, anyone can gain in their specific circumstances.

3 is like a magic number!  You’ll see it through my post.  So be ready for it.

How to:

1. Identify the 3 crucial tasks to reach your goals each day
2. 3 hours for a priority project
3. 3 urgent but quicker tasks
4. 3 administrative or maintenance tasks

Break large tasks into 3 more manageable chunks.  Having 3 main tasks for the day helps to prioritize.  Pin down what to focus on, and eliminate all unnecessary distractions.

Your 3-hour dedicated block is your main focus.  Of course, ensuring regular breaks is crucial.  It supports productivity levels.

Aim to get more done in less time.  The quality of your results also counts.  Having no burnout is an absolute must.

Blogger examples that illustrate the idea

3 crucial tasks to reach goals each day

Strategically select 3 main tasks to focus on for the day.  It supports better concentration.  It also helps to avoid being overwhelmed.  

I choose them based on my priorities.  They contribute toward my main goals of the day.  Often,  they tend to be social media posts, blog articles, and something administrative in nature.

3 hours for a priority project

Use a 3-hour dedicated block for your big chore.  It’s likely to be a priority and the largest task for the day.  It also contributes towards your main goal.

For me, researching my next article often takes up this slot.  I also draft after that and work till my article is ready for publication.  The process normally spreads over 3 days of the week.  On each of these days, my article work takes up the largest chunk of my time.

Urgent but quicker tasks

Coming to urgent and quicker tasks, they could get the ball rolling.  If it’s something you can finish in a few minutes, do it right away.  Don’t procrastinate.

My small quick tasks include replying to emails.  Responding to blog comments.  Tackling anything that I can right away.

Administrative or maintenance tasks

Some works are important but can wait.  For example, I do monthly and quarterly reporting when convenient.  Another example could be doing monthly content backups manually if needed.

It’s crucial to differentiate between what needs immediate attention, and what can wait.  If not, you risk burnout.  This method supports achieving your aims successfully.

Related methods and techniques 

Similar methods can support working smarter.  Some can also complement each other.  Find the ones that you prefer.

The list:

• 2-minute rule
• Task-batching 
• Flow state
• Pomodoro
• Power naps
• Avoid multitasking 
• Avoid time-wasters 

Tackle what you can right away, if it takes 2 minutes to do so.  Batch your tasks to save time, and get in a flow state for seamless sessions.  Use the Pomodoro technique and timebox your to-dos.

Power naps are handy, as you need to rest before getting back to your desk.  Say no to multitasking, as it’s often counterproductive.  Avoid time wasters, and focus on the right things instead.

Handy apps and platforms

When practicing productivity methods, apps facilitate doing so.  You might forget an action, a timing, and so on.  Apps support staying on track effectively.

If you’re looking for a helpful app, I recommend one that I use.  It includes Pomodoro, time-boxing, AI Coaches, and more.  It’s also great for the flow state.

If you want to use the app for the 3 3 3 productivity method, customize it as you please.  For example, I find it helpful to add your 3 goals for the day as tasks.  Then set the duration that you prefer to include regular breaks. 

Great habits to embrace 

In addition to proven techniques, develop the right habits.  Make them a part of your daily life, naturally.  They support your goals and progress.

A non-exhaustive list:

• Morning routines
• Regular breaks 
• Drink plenty of water
• Ensure enough sleep
• Discipline
• Self-motivation 

Conquer your to-do list and slay your goals.  Embrace the 3 3 3 productivity rule, as well as any other techniques that you prefer.  You may even use a combination of different methods.  Choose which ones suit you, and incorporate them into your daily life.

Conclusion 

The 3 3 3 method productivity is a no-brainer.  It’s a series of simple to-dos that support you in your daily tasks.  Leverage it to work smarter and slay your goals.

Editor’s Note: This blog article was last updated on 17 November 2025 for better accuracy and comprehensiveness.