The Pareto Principle (the 80/20 rule) and how it can set you up for success [2025]

Ever feel like you're working so hard but barely making progress? Or maybe your to-do list is always packed but the results don't match the effort you're putting in? If so, you need the 80/20 rule in your life.

Also called the Pareto Principle, the 80/20 rule simply says: 80% of your results come from 20% of your actions. In other words, not everything you do matters equally – a small part of your work drives most of your progress.

🎯 What is the 80/20 Rule, Really?

The 80/20 rule is named after Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto, who noticed that 80% of Italy's wealth came from 20% of its people. Over time, this idea was found to apply to almost everything in life and business.

Examples:

• 80% of your grades come from 20% of your study habits
• 80% of your sales come from 20% of your clients
• 80% of stress comes from 20% of your problems

So the big question is: How do you figure out your "20%" and focus on it?

✅ How to Apply the 80/20 Rule in Real Life

➢ Identify What Really Matters

Look at your tasks for the week. Which ones actually move you forward? Which ones are just busywork? Be honest – replying to every random email probably isn't as important as finishing that big project or studying for an exam.

➢ Focus on Your Top 3 Priorities

This is where an app like Prioritize makes it so much easier. Instead of staring at a giant list, pick your Top 3 tasks for the day – the ones that bring the biggest results. That's your 20%.

➢ Let Go of the Rest

It's hard, but sometimes you have to say no to the tasks that don't really matter right now. Delegate them, schedule them for later, or just let them go if they don't truly align with your bigger goals.

➢ Use Time Blocks or Pomodoro

Once you know your 20% tasks, protect your time for them. Block out focused work sessions (like Pomodoro: 25 minutes focus, 5 minutes break) so you give your best energy to what really counts.

➢ Review & Adjust Weekly

Each week, look back: Which tasks gave you the biggest results? What wasted your time? Refine your "20%" as you go – it might change over time, and that's okay.

How Prioritize Helps You Use the 80/20 Rule

A lot of people understand the 80/20 principle but struggle to stick with it. Prioritize was designed to make it simple:

• Pick your Top 3 daily priorities – your "20%"
• Use reminders so you don't forget what matters
• Add an accountability partner to keep you focused
• Use Pomodoro timers to protect your focus time
• See your progress and know what's working

When you stick to your Top 3, you naturally spend more time on high-impact tasks — and less on busywork.

Final Thoughts

Most people don't fail because they're lazy – they fail because they're busy doing the wrong things. The 80/20 rule helps you flip that. Focus your energy where it matters, cut the noise, and watch how much lighter (and more productive) your days feel.

Ready to do less and achieve more?

👉 Download Prioritize today — and make the 80/20 rule part of your everyday life.