Eisenhower Matrix

What it is

The Eisenhower Matrix sorts your tasks into four quadrants: Urgent & Important → Do now. Important but Not Urgent → Schedule. Urgent but Not Important → Delegate. Not Urgent & Not Important → Delete.

When to use it

Use this framework when your task list feels endless and you can't see what really matters. Founders under pressure often confuse urgency with importance, but this matrix clears the fog.

How to apply (3 to 4 steps)

1. Write down today's open tasks.

2. Place each task in one of the four quadrants.

3. Do or schedule the Important ones.

4. Delegate or delete the rest.

Try it now (Micro task)

Take your top 10 tasks. Place each in a quadrant. Delete at least one "Not Important" task today.

Founder story

"I thought every ping was urgent. Once I mapped tasks to the matrix, half my work vanished. I finally left the office at 6 pm without guilt."

Why it works (Evidence)

Ruthless prioritization frees time and energy from low value work.

Related models

• Type 1 vs Type 2 Decisions: Separate reversible from one-way calls
• Minimum Viable Operations: Focus only on essential systems
• Boundary Rehearsal: Practice saying no with confidence