Three Tasks You Should Do Every Day To Stay Happy And Productive

Three Tasks You Should Do Every Day To Stay Happy And Productive

Some days, even the best job can be a bit of a drag. If you want to get things done — but still keep your sanity — Jay Shirley’s “Must, Should, Want” method can go a long way.

Photo by Stacy Spensley

Jay Shirley, creator of productivity app The Daily Practice, keeps his days productive and enjoyable by formulating his to-do list with three things in mind:

First thing in the morning when you create your to-do list, start with these three entries:

  1. I must ______________ (a high-priority task that will have an immediate impact)
  2. I should ____________ (a task that will contribute to your long-term goals)
  3. I want ______________ (something you genuinely want to do)

With this approach, every day you’re working on something that will benefit you in the short-term, as well as lay the groundwork for long-term goals. And the “I want” task helps maintain your sanity by building in a little time for something you’re passionate about.

Not only will the “want” task keep you happy, but the “should” task — usually a long-term task you’ve been ignoring — will keep you feeling mega productive and accomplished, which is happiness in its own right.

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