It can be tricky to stay focused at work during a heatwave, especially when you’d rather be outside soaking up the sun. However, the 3-3-3 productivity method offers a simple way to stay on track without burning out.
This time management technique breaks your day into clear, manageable segments, helping you stay productive even when the heat is distracting.
Guy Thornton, Founder of PracticeAptitudeTests.com, shares how the 3-3-3 method works and how to make it part of your daily routine during sunny spells:
What is the 3-3-3 method?
“The 3-3-3 method involves splitting your workday into three parts: three hours of deep work, three shorter tasks, and three maintenance tasks.
“Deep work is your most challenging and important work that require full concentration, such as writing reports or analysing data.
“Once those high-priority tasks are done, you can switch to shorter, less intense jobs. These could include replying to emails, updating spreadsheets, organising your calendar, or preparing for upcoming meetings.
“Finally, as your workday winds down, it’s time to shift to maintenance tasks. These include lighter and routine activities that help you stay organised, such as tidying your workspace, clearing out your inbox, or preparing your to-do list for tomorrow.
How does it work?
“The idea is to work with your natural energy levels rather than against them.
“Most people have the most mental clarity and focus in the morning. This is when you should tackle those demanding tasks that require creative thinking and problem-solving.
“As your energy dips later in the day, you shift to less intensive tasks. Mid-level work requires your attention but doesn’t require as much mental effort.
“Then, at the end of the day, when your brain is ready to shut down, you can concentrate on maintenance tasks that are useful but use little thought.
“This approach not only allows you to make the most of your peak productivity hours, it also motivates you by ensuring that your work becomes easier as the day progresses.”
Why does it work?
“The 3-3-3 method is effective because it’s realistic and adaptable. Instead of trying to power through a never-ending list of tasks, it encourages you to prioritise and focus on what’s really important.
“Breaking the day into chunks also makes work feel less overwhelming. By focusing on just three major tasks at a time, your workload becomes more manageable.”
How to start using the 3-3-3 method
“Spend a few minutes at the end of each day deciding which tasks fit into each category for the following day. This will vary depending on your job role.
“Then, create a schedule that works for you, whether it’s on a spreadsheet, in a productivity diary, or simply a handwritten to-do list.
“Once you have your plan, stick to it. During your deep work block, minimise distractions as much as possible.
“Turn off notifications and take proactive steps to stay focused, such as wearing headphones or setting a timer.
“Don’t worry if everything doesn’t go perfectly. If something takes longer than planned or you need to adjust your schedule, that’s okay.
“The goal isn’t to stick rigidly to the method, but to use it as a guide for managing your time and energy.”
