How do you personally do your One Good Thing?

I apply the principle of setting small, manageable goals by breaking down larger tasks into more achievable steps. For instance, when working on a long-term project, I set daily or weekly targets, such as completing a specific section or researching a particular topic. This helps me stay focused and provides a sense of accomplishment as I progress.

I also use a daily to-do list with three to five specific tasks, like ‘write 500 words’ or ‘respond to three key emails’. This keeps my workload manageable and ensures I complete tasks by the end of the day.

In my personal life, I use this approach to maintain a healthy work-life balance. For example, I set goals like ‘spend 30 minutes unwinding each evening’ or ‘dedicate Saturday mornings to a hobby’. This ensures I take time for myself, improving my overall wellbeing.

To balance work and family time, I set small goals like ‘have dinner together as a family every evening’ and ‘plan one family activity on weekends’. This helps me consistently prioritise family time, strengthening our relationships.

As a working mum to a toddler, I can sometimes get overwhelmed by housework. I overcome this by breaking tasks into manageable goals spread throughout the week, like ‘vacuum on Tuesday’ or ‘do laundry on Thursday’. Tackling chores this way keeps my home organised without feeling overwhelmed, leaving more time for relaxation and family.

By breaking down tasks into smaller steps, I manage my time better, avoid burnout and maintain a healthy balance between work, personal life and family.

And how has doing this changed your life?

It has helped my productivity. I used to feel overwhelmed by the perceived enormity of a task. Now, I subconsciously break everything down and it feels so much more achievable. With practice, this has become second nature.

It’s also boosted my confidence. At the end of every day I come away with a sense of accomplishment, which has been hugely motivating.

It’s also been the foundation for building positive habits. Setting goals for myself, such as meditating for 10 minutes a day or listening to a 30-minute podcast, has led to these activities becoming daily habits that it’s been easy to fit within my working day and personal life.

One Good Thing: why setting small, achievable goals is the best way to tackle overwhelm and be more productive