I’ve been sitting on a secret rule that may just change your life.
This rule, which I instituted a few weeks ago, has dramatically improved like, EVERYTHING. No seriously. I’m not being dramatic.
It’s a tidbit I picked up from author Gretchen Rubin (I’m a superfan!) called the “one minute rule.”
Essentially, the rule is that anything that can be done in a minute’s time, should be done now.
(Yes, RIGHT NOW.)
That means no postponing until later.
Whether it’s putting your keys away, turning off the light, picking up your shoes, etc. Just do it. Otherwise, all of these little tasks add up quickly and contribute to your overall life clutter.
I am the worst offender when it comes to random things lying around. On any given day I’ll leave my purse in the middle of the floor, unopened mail on the counter, socks, and bra hanging over the bathtub, and on and on and on.
I frustrate myself.
With the one minute rule, you not only get the satisfaction of having a more orderly space (hallelujah!) but completing these items throughout the day can actually do a great deal to improve your peace of mind and your happiness. Related: checking items off of your to-do list is badass.
Because the tasks are quick, it isn’t hard to make yourself follow the rule—and it has big rewards.
“Keeping all those small, nagging tasks under control has the power to make you more serene and less overwhelmed.” – Gretchen Rubin
Also, it is kind of fun to see how much you can get done in such a short span of time.
I recommend starting with:
- answering emails (fire off as many fast emails as you can)
- small household chores ( hang up your coat, put away blankets, clean a countertop)
- pet cleanup (brush the dog, clean out the cat litter)
So, what are you waiting for? Get on it! Don’t let something go that can be done in a minute. Put your shoes away. Put the cap back on your toothpaste. Subscribe to our newsletter. Put the dishes in the dishwasher. Hang your dress back up in the closet.
Whatever you need to do, just do it.
(Especially that subscribing to our newsletter idea… That’s a great place to start!)
Leticia Barr
Oh I love this! I do try to use my spare minutes productively to make my life a bit more zen but ugh, I don’t think there are enough minutes in the day! But start small, right? It does make a huge difference! 🙂
Jennifer Gerlock
I get so overwhelmed by the thought of sweeping changes to my routine. This idea really resonated with me. (And also, it is kind of fun to challenge myself!)
Glad you like it!