The Eisenhower Matrix (Urgent vs. Important)

[s0nt3k]

The Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix, is a powerful decision-making tool that helps you prioritize tasks by urgency and importance so you focus on what truly matters instead of just reacting to what’s loudest.

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The 4 Quadrants:

Quadrant	Type of Task	Action
1. Urgent & Important	Crises, deadlines, problems	Do it now
2. Not Urgent but Important	Planning, strategy, learning	Schedule it
3. Urgent but Not Important	Interruptions, some emails/meetings	Delegate it
4. Not Urgent & Not Important	Distractions, busywork, scrolling	Eliminate it

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Examples:

• Quadrant 1: Fixing a customer complaint that’s affecting sales

• Quadrant 2: Creating a business growth plan

• Quadrant 3: Responding to routine emails

• Quadrant 4: Checking social media repeatedly

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Why It Works:

• Cuts through overwhelm by making priorities visual

• Frees up time for long-term goals (Quadrant 2)

• Reduces stress by avoiding constant urgency

• Helps you work smarter, not harder