We’ve all had days where our to-do list feels overwhelming. You sit down at your desk, ready to work, but instead of tackling the most important task, you start with the easy ones—checking emails, organizing files, or scrolling through social media.
Before you know it, half the day is gone, and the big task you were dreading is still sitting there, untouched.
Sound familiar?
This is where the Eat the Frog technique comes in. Popularized by Brian Tracy in his book Eat That Frog! 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time, this productivity method is based on a simple but powerful idea: if you have to eat a frog, do it first thing in the morning.
Let’s break down what this means, why it works, and how you can apply it to your daily routine.
What Does “Eat the Frog” Mean?
The “frog” is the most important and challenging task on your to-do list—the one that you’re most likely to procrastinate on but will have the biggest impact on your success.
By tackling this high-priority task first thing in the morning, you set the tone for a productive day. Once the hardest task is done, everything else feels easier in comparison.
The concept comes from a quote often attributed to Mark Twain:
“If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.”
In other words, stop procrastinating and handle the tough stuff right away.
Why “Eating the Frog” Works
The Eat the Frog method is effective for several reasons:
1. Beats Procrastination
Many people delay their most important tasks because they seem daunting. By tackling them first, you eliminate the temptation to put them off.
2. Maximizes Energy and Willpower
Research suggests that our willpower is strongest in the morning and depletes throughout the day. This means you’re more likely to complete difficult tasks when you have the most mental energy.
3. Reduces Decision Fatigue
Making too many decisions throughout the day can exhaust your brain. When you start your day knowing exactly what needs to be done first, you conserve mental energy for other tasks.
4. Creates Momentum
When you accomplish a challenging task early in the day, you build momentum and confidence, making it easier to tackle the rest of your to-do list.
5. Increases Productivity
By focusing on high-impact tasks, you make meaningful progress toward your goals instead of getting stuck in busy work.
How to Apply the Eat the Frog Technique
Using this technique is simple, but it requires consistency. Here’s how to implement it:
Step 1: Identify Your Frog
At the end of each day, review your to-do list and identify the one task that:
- Will have the greatest positive impact on your goals
- Is the most difficult or time-consuming
- You’re most likely to procrastinate on
This is your “frog” for the next day.
Step 2: Tackle It First Thing in the Morning
When you start your day, focus solely on completing your frog before moving on to anything else. Avoid distractions, and don’t let smaller tasks get in the way.
Some tips for staying focused:
- Time Block: Schedule the first 1-2 hours of your day to work on your frog.
- Turn Off Notifications: Silence your phone and email alerts to minimize distractions.
- Use the Pomodoro Technique: Work in focused intervals (e.g., 25 minutes on, 5 minutes off) to maintain productivity.
Step 3: Break It Down
If your frog feels too overwhelming, break it into smaller steps. Completing even a small part of the task can help build momentum.
Step 4: Build the Habit
The key to success with this method is consistency. Make “eating the frog” a daily habit by following these steps every morning. Over time, you’ll find it easier to tackle difficult tasks and stay productive.
Examples of “Eating the Frog” in Action
To see how this method works in real life, let’s look at a few examples:
- Entrepreneurs: Instead of answering emails first thing in the morning, a business owner might prioritize strategic planning, high-value client work, or product development.
- Students: A student facing a big research paper can start by writing the hardest section first instead of procrastinating with easier assignments.
- Writers: Instead of waiting for inspiration, a writer can commit to writing 500 words before doing anything else.
- Fitness Enthusiasts: If working out is the hardest part of your day, doing it first thing eliminates excuses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While the Eat the Frog technique is simple, people sometimes struggle to implement it. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
1. Not Defining Your Frog Clearly
If you don’t know what your most important task is, you’ll end up wasting time. Be specific about what needs to be done.
2. Letting Small Tasks Take Over
Checking emails, organizing files, or responding to messages might feel productive, but they don’t move the needle. Prioritize your frog before anything else.
3. Skipping It When It Feels Too Hard
Your frog is supposed to be challenging. If it feels overwhelming, break it into smaller steps and start with the first one.
4. Not Making It a Daily Habit
One day of productivity won’t change your life, but consistently tackling your biggest challenges will.
Final Thoughts
The Eat the Frog method is one of the simplest yet most powerful productivity strategies. By tackling your hardest and most important task first thing in the morning, you set yourself up for success every day.
Remember: Your frog won’t eat itself. So start tomorrow with a clear plan, take action, and watch your productivity soar.
E. K. Soroba