The 2-Minute Rule: A Tiny Tactic with Big Impact

Lately, I've been experimenting with the 2-minute rule. The idea is that is a task takes less than two minutes, I should just do it immediately. Rather than parking it, or overthinking, you just act and get it done.

It's deceptively simple, but surprisingly powerful. These micro-actions, like replying to team queries, approving a leave request, sharing a quick link or bit of info, making a quick phone call - often crop up during my 3-21-0 email process or in the natural gaps between meetings. Instead of letting them swell my to-do list or clutter my mental bandwidth, I've started to consciously assign short bursts at the start and end of my day to clear them down.

But Doesn't That Clash with DISE?

At first glance, you may say it does. DISE (Deadlines, Information, Sizing and Eisenhower Matrix - reminder here) encourages us to pause, assess and plan. It's very intentional. But, here's the nuance: the 2-minute rule applies to tasks that are already sized, already clear, and already low-effort. They don't need a deep-dive, they just need a small push and they're over the line and done.

Rather than contradicting DISE, I see this as a tactical layer that complements it. It's a way to honour simplicity when simplicity presents itself.

Natural Fit, Conscious Habit

The truth is, I've done this instinctively for years. I don't like wasting time, and I've always had a bias toward action. Recently, revisiting David Allen's work, Daniel Pink's Pinkcast video series, and hearing Dan Martell champion it made me want to consciously focus on it to see its benefits (links to these great resources below).

Micro-Windows, Macro Wins

Those little windows - five minutes before a call, a lull after lunch, can be gold. Instead of doomscrolling or dithering, I use this to knock through a few quick wins. It's like clearing the runway before takeoff, clearing the decks for when my focus then moves to deep-work. Less clutter, and more clarity - and that's my mantra.

Final Thought

The 2-minute rule respects simplicity. When a task is clear, quick, and low-effort - why not just do it? It's a small shift, but it's helped me stay lighter, clearer, and more focused throughout the day.

Why not give this a try, and leave a comment below.

P.S., Don't forget to sign up to my Weekly blog on the below form, or at Medium.com (see 'Resources').

Resources:

• BeClearPro Blog at Medium.com - https://medium.com/@BeClearPro

• Daniel Pink's Website - https://www.danpink.com/

• Dan Martell's Website - https://www.danmartell.com/

• David Allen's book: Getting Things Done - Buy at Amazon