14-Minute Rule That Changed My Home

Summary

People often delay small chores not because they take much time, but because of the feelings or associations attached to them. Doing the task can be easier—and more rewarding—than spending days thinking about it.

Strategies and Tips

• Try the “14-minute rule.” Set aside a short, defined block of time to begin a task you’ve been putting off. Many chores, such as folding laundry, dusting, or mopping, take less time than expected.
• Notice what you avoid. Identify recurring tasks you delay, then ask what makes them feel unpleasant or burdensome.
• Make chores easier to manage. Handle small tasks promptly, before they pile up. Owning fewer items can also reduce dusting and cleaning.
• Change the setting for difficult tasks. One speaker finds phone calls less burdensome when made during a nature walk and prefers asynchronous voice messages to some live calls.
• Choose meaningful activities over easy distractions. Writing, reading, and exercising may take more effort than scrolling, but even a short session can be a worthwhile start.
• Reconsider old associations. A task may feel worse because of a past experience or “bad taste.” Doing it and noticing the result can help loosen that resistance.

Presenters

Joshua and T.K. Coleman of The Minimalists.