Frequently Asked Questions About the Ivy Lee Method
As you begin to apply this method, practical questions will naturally arise. Here are answers to some of the most common queries we see at TheFocusedMethod.com.
What if I get interrupted and can’t finish my first task?
This is a reality of the modern workplace. The Ivy Lee Method is a guide, not a rigid prison. If an urgent and important interruption arises (e.g., your boss needs you for a crisis, a critical system goes down), you handle it. The key is to distinguish between a true, external emergency and a self-generated distraction (like the urge to check email). Once the emergency is resolved, the goal is to return to your #1 task as quickly as possible. The list is your default setting, your anchor in a sea of potential distractions. Don’t abandon the plan for the day; simply return to it.
Why only six tasks? I have way more than six things to do.
Everyone has more than six things they could do. The constraint is the entire point of the exercise. It’s a tool that forces you to separate the truly important from the merely urgent. If you consistently feel you have more than six *critical* tasks each day, it may be a sign of a deeper issue. You might be overcommitted, need to delegate more effectively, or are struggling to say “no.” The list of six isn’t meant to capture everything; it’s meant to guarantee that you make progress on the things that matter most.
Is it better to use a digital tool or pen and paper?
There is no single right answer, but we strongly recommend starting with pen and paper. The physical act of writing slows down your thinking and can lead to more thoughtful prioritization. The constraints of a notecard are also beneficial. However, the best system is ultimately the one you will use consistently. If a simple digital text file is less friction for you and you can resist the temptation to over-complicate it or get distracted by the device it’s on, then it is a perfectly acceptable choice.
How is the Ivy Lee Method different from a standard to-do list?
A standard to-do list is often a “brain dump”—a long, unprioritized collection of everything you need to do. It can quickly become overwhelming and a source of anxiety. The Ivy Lee Method is fundamentally different in three ways. First, the constraint of six items forces prioritization upfront. Second, the forced ranking (numbering 1-6) tells you exactly what to work on next, eliminating in-the-moment decision fatigue. Third, the methodology of single-tasking until completion is a core instruction, not just a suggestion. A to-do list is a menu of options; an Ivy Lee list is a battle plan.
How long should I try a new productivity hack before quitting?
Give any new, simple habit like this an honest effort for at least two full weeks. The first few days can feel awkward as you break old patterns. You need time for the new routine to become more automatic. After two weeks, perform a quick evaluation. Is it reducing your stress? Are you getting more important work done? If it’s consistently causing more friction than it’s removing, or if you find yourself dreading the process, it may not be the right fit for your personality or workflow. The goal is to find a system that supports you, not one that you have to fight to maintain.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for advice tailored to your specific situation. The effects of sleep, focus, and stress management can be complex, and information from resources like the Sleep Foundation may be beneficial for a holistic understanding.
