Hey there, productivity seekers. This is Hazel, and welcome to another episode of Peak Productivity: Life Hacks That Actually Work.

Today, I want to talk to you about something I know you're wrestling with right now. In our hyper-connected, always-on world, feeling overwhelmed isn't just common—it's become the default setting for most professionals. As I'm recording this on April 11th, 2025, I'm acutely aware that your to-do list probably feels like a mountain that keeps growing instead of shrinking.

Let me share a game-changing productivity hack that I've personally used and coached hundreds of clients through: The 90-20 Method. Think of your brain like a high-performance engine. Just like a sports car can't run at maximum speed continuously, neither can your mind.

Here's how it works. You're going to work in concentrated 90-minute deep work blocks, followed by a mandatory 20-minute reset period. During those 90 minutes, you eliminate ALL distractions. Phone on silent. Email closed. No multitasking. Just pure, laser-focused work on your most important task.

Those 20-minute breaks aren't optional—they're essential. Use them to truly disconnect. Take a walk. Do some stretching. Drink water. Let your brain breathe and reset. This isn't wasted time—it's strategic recovery that makes your next 90-minute block exponentially more effective.

Pro tip: Most people fail at this because they don't truly protect those 90-minute blocks. Set clear boundaries. Tell your team. Use do not disturb settings. Make your focus time sacred.

I want to share three additional micro-strategies to supercharge this approach:

First, identify your peak energy hours. For most people, that's early morning. Schedule your most complex work during those hours.

Second, create a ritual that signals your brain it's time to focus. Maybe it's a specific playlist, or brewing a particular type of tea. Consistent rituals train your brain for high performance.

Third, track your energy, not just your time. Some 90-minute blocks will feel easier than others. Listen to your body's natural rhythms.

Before we wrap up, here's your practical takeaway. Tonight, look at your calendar for tomorrow. Block out two 90-minute deep work sessions. Treat them like important meetings with yourself. No negotiation.

Remember, productivity isn't about doing more—it's about doing what matters most with incredible intention.

I'm Hazel, and you've been listening to Peak Productivity: Life Hacks That Actually Work. Until next time, work smarter, not harder.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI