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The Simplify Principle brings order to your everyday life without overwhelming you. Get simple tips to set priorities stress-free and master your to-dos more efficiently — ideal for productive studies.
Do you know that? You wake up, your cell phone beeps, your head is full of to-dos, and the only thought that motivates you is: “When is it finally the weekend again? “Welcome to the everyday life of most students and professionals! Time management often feels like a tricky puzzle — you know it should work out somehow, but in the end, everything piles up on the “I'll do it later” heap.
Fortunately, there is that Simplify principle. Don't worry, this isn't about complicated apps or an endless to-do list with 17 colors. Simplify is like the friendly roommate who tells you, “Chill, but do the important things first.” Sounds good, doesn't it? Then let's take a look at how this principle can steer your chaos in an orderly way — without unnecessary stress.
The Simplify Principle comes from the “Simplify Your Life” movement of the same name, which was made famous by Werner Tiki Küstenmacher and Lothar Seiwert. It is based on the idea that we should consciously simplify in an increasingly complex world — and that also applies to how we manage our time.
Instead of striving for more tools, more rules and more structure, Simplify is focusing on an alternative: Focus instead of multitasking, prioritizing instead of ticking off and letting go instead of perfectionism.
1. Less is more
The Simplify Principle asks you to critically question what is really important. We often try to pack as many tasks as possible into our day and end up feeling drained. The key is to boldly say no — to unnecessary meetings, redundant tasks, and time wasters. Focus on what's really important to you.
2. Clean up your calendar
A cluttered calendar isn't synonymous with productivity. Deliberately plan idle time. You can use this time to react spontaneously or simply relax. A free block in the calendar isn't “idle,” but a way to recharge your battery.
3. Set priorities according to the Pareto principle
The Pareto Principle states that 80% of results can be achieved with 20% of the effort. So identify the few tasks that really make the biggest difference and dedicate your energy to them. Everything else may be withheld or completely deleted.
4. Let go of perfectionism
Simplify also means saying goodbye to the illusion of having to do everything perfectly. Good enough is often completely sufficient. When you complete 80% of tasks, you create space for what really counts — whether at work or in private life.
1. The 3-most-important-tasks rule (3 MITs)
Start your day by defining three tasks that you absolutely want to complete. Write them down and focus on completing these three points. Everything else is secondary.
2. Use the power of routines
Routine tasks such as checking emails, planning or tidying up should be standardized. Schedule fixed times for this and avoid doing them spontaneously in between. This is how you keep your head free for the really important things.
3. Introduce digital detox times
Interruptions caused by messages or social media are one of the biggest enemies of effective time management. Set clear time windows in which you are offline and thus allow yourself conscious phases of concentration.
The simple principle works so well because it brings us back to the essentials. It helps to throw off the ballast and gain more clarity. Instead of ever more detailed planning, which stresses us out even more, Simplify offers a flexible structure that adapts to your life.
It's also sustainable: Instead of imposing strict rules on yourself, it teaches you to set your own priorities and listen more to your intuition. You decide what really counts — and that not only feels good, but is also more effective in the long term.
The Simplify Principle is an invitation to consciously slow down your own life and focus on what's important. It's more than just a method — it's a philosophy that helps you to be both more productive and more relaxed. Try it out: Let go, simplify and discover how much easier and more fulfilling your everyday life can be.
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