Most people simply have way too much on their to-do lists. 5, 7, or even 10 tasks are way too many for a day. You don’t need all that. You just need 3 medium tasks for the day, or one big task divided into 3 smaller ones.

I’m going to show you exactly why this system works and how to make it work for you.

Perspective 1: Choose 3 Main Priorities for the Day

Think of this as your big picture filter. Instead of trying to do everything, ask yourself:

👉 “If I only completed 3 tasks today, what would make me feel proud by evening?”

Those 3 tasks become your priorities. Everything else is optional.

FYI, before you decide to go all in, use the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound) method to pick your tasks.

The 3 tasks you pick should be attainable; otherwise, you will keep failing or worse, burn out.

Example:

Priority Task 1: Write and publish a blog post.

Priority Task 2: Go to the gym for a 45-minute workout.

Priority Task 3: Send out 3 client follow-up emails.

If those 3 get done, your day is a success, even if smaller things remain unfinished.

Perspective 2: Break a Big Task into 3 Smaller Tasks

Sometimes, one task feels too overwhelming to even start. That’s when you split it into 3 smaller, achievable steps.

🔹 Example 1: Launching an online course

Instead of writing “Launch course” (which feels heavy), break it into:

1. Finalize and upload course videos.
2. Write the sales page copy.
3. Schedule email announcements and social posts.

Suddenly, the “mountain” looks like 3 small hills.

🔹 Example 2: Cleaning your home

Instead of writing “Clean house,” split it into:

1. Wash dishes and wipe kitchen counters.
2. Do laundry (wash, hang, or fold one load).
3. Sweep and mop the floors.

You’ll feel progress without the overwhelm.

Why this works:

• Focus: You see exactly where to start.
• Progress: Each small win pushes you closer to finishing.
• Motivation: Breaking it down reduces procrastination.

Conclusion

The 3-task rule isn’t about doing less; it’s about doing what matters most in the simplest way.

• Some days, you’ll use it to pick 3 priority tasks.
• Other days, you’ll use it to break down 1 big project into 3 smaller tasks.

Either way, it keeps you productive without burning out.

So tomorrow morning, instead of writing a laundry list of 15 tasks, ask yourself: What are my 3 priorities today?