We’re constantly bombarded with productivity advice – meticulously planned schedules, rigid task lists, and relentless self-discipline. But what if the secret to getting things done isn’t about forcing yourself into a pre-defined mold, but about something far simpler?
For years, I’ve experimented with countless techniques, searching for what truly works. I discovered a surprisingly effective method, one that bypasses the overwhelm of complex systems and taps into a natural human drive. It’s a technique I’ve come to call the “one more” approach.
The idea is beautifully straightforward: break down your tasks into the smallest possible pieces, then challenge yourself to do just “one more.” A Reddit user originally coined the phrase, but the principle is timeless. Instead of facing a mountain of emails, you simply commit to tackling one. The initial victory is surprisingly motivating.
That first completed email doesn’t feel daunting; it feels *good*. And suddenly, doing “one more” doesn’t seem so hard. This isn’t about willpower; it’s about momentum. It’s about harnessing the small wins to fuel continued progress.
My colleague, Beth Skwarecki, uses a similar tactic in the gym. Instead of focusing on the grueling length of a workout, she asks herself, “Can I do one more rep?” or “One more minute?” It’s a subtle shift in perspective that keeps her pushing forward.
I find this strategy particularly powerful when facing tasks I actively dislike, like cleaning. Elaborate cleaning plans always fall apart. But if I simply address the first visible mess – a dirty baseboard, for example – and then ask myself if I can do “one more” thing, a surprising amount gets accomplished.
The core principle is this: large tasks are simply collections of smaller ones. Writing a ten-page essay feels impossible, but writing one page doesn’t. Each completed mini-task delivers a small surge of confidence, making the next one feel less intimidating.
This approach works best for tasks that aren’t time-sensitive. Prioritize using a system to identify what can be tackled this way. But even then, don’t get bogged down in *more* planning. Sometimes, simply writing down your to-do list is enough to spark action when the moment feels right.
While “one more” is fantastic for individual tasks, it also excels at breaking down complex projects. Even while working on something substantial, those small, consistent wins reinforce your progress and prevent burnout.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, dissect the project into its smallest components and commit to just one. Don’t worry about the overall timeline; focus solely on that single step. Continue with “one more” until you run out of time or the job is complete.
Crucially, listen to your body. If you honestly can’t do “one more” – if you’re genuinely tired or mentally drained – then *stop*. Taking breaks isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s essential for sustained productivity. Let your honest answer guide you.
The goal isn’t to push yourself to exhaustion, but to cultivate motivation and build confidence. Don’t berate yourself if you need a rest. The “one more” approach is about progress, not perfection.
