How The Ivy Lee Method Makes You a Productive Writer

Write down the six most important things you need to accomplish tomorrow.

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The Ivy Lee method has been working for over 100 years.

It originated in 1918 when Lee, a productivity consultant, was hired by Charles M. Schwab. Lee offered to help Schwab to become more productive for free.

After three months of practicing the Ivy Lee method, Schwab was so happy with the results that he sent Lee a check for $25,000 — the equivalent of about $400,000 today.

How does this relate to writing? I found this information when James Clear wrote about this story. And it made me realize how it can make me a more productive writer.

What Is the Ivy Lee Method?

The Ivy Lee method forces you to prioritize.

Here’s how it works:

• At the end of every day, write down what you need to accomplish tomorrow. But only write down the six most important. No more. No less.
• When you create this list, organize it in order of importance.
• The next day, start working on these tasks in order of importance. Only give yourself permission to work on the next task when the previous one is completed.