A recent study by Leidy Klotz and his team revealed something interesting. Participants were given a jam-packed 14-hour itinerary for visiting Washington, D.C. and asked to improve it.
Surprisingly, only 25% of people removed activities. Most added even more to the already overloaded schedule!
This study reflects how many of us approach work and life. We think that to do better, we need to do more. But often, this mindset leads to stress, overwhelm, and burnout.
In this video, I want to discuss a really key principle of performance, which is Eliminating.
Today’s leaders and professionals face a constant flood of tasks, emails, and meetings. With so many priorities, everything starts to feel important—and that’s a problem. If everything is important, then nothing truly is.
Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu said:
“To gain knowledge, add things every day. To gain wisdom, subtract things every day.”
The key to better performance isn’t adding more; it’s eliminating what doesn’t matter. Doing less isn’t about being lazy; it’s about focusing on what really matters.
Here are three simple ways to start:
1. Cut Down Your Priorities
Many of us try to juggle too many priorities, thinking it will help us succeed. But real success comes from focusing on just a few important goals.
Ask yourself: What’s truly important? Say no to everything else—even if it’s a good idea.
2. Simplify Your To-Do List
Look at your task list. Does it feel endless? It’s probably filled with things you don’t need to do.
Identify tasks that:
- Aren’t necessary.
- Can be delegated.
- Can be delayed or eliminated.
Fewer tasks mean more focus on what matters.
3. Learn to Say No
It’s hard to say no when people ask for help. We want to be helpful and supportive. But saying yes to everything leaves no time for your top priorities—or for the people who matter in your personal life.
Practice saying no politely but firmly. Protect your time and energy for what’s most important.
So, my question to you is: Are you among the 75% of people who instinctively believe that improving performance means adding more tasks?
If so, what should you start saying no to?
This is this week’s Work Smarter: Live Better tip.
Hope you have a lovely day!
A bientôt,
Cyril
