The 80/20 Rule: How to Work Smarter Not Harder

The Power of Leverage

Vilfredo Pareto discovered 80% of results come from 20% of efforts. Modern studies show this applies to:

• Business: 20% clients generate 80% revenue
• Health: 20% exercises yield 80% benefits
• Learning: 20% study methods create 80% retention

How to Find Your 20%

1. The “Stop Doing” List
Identify bottom 80% activities that contribute least
Example: Checking email first thing destroys morning productivity

2. The Results Audit
For 1 week, track:
– Time spent per activity
– Actual outcomes produced
Pattern: The vital few will emerge

Common 80/20 Applications

80/20 Mistakes to Avoid

• Perfectionism on low-value tasks
• Over-optimizing before identifying true 20%
• Ignoring the 80% completely (some maintenance is necessary)

Pro Tip: Ask daily: “Is this in my top 20%?” If not, delegate or eliminate.