How to Use the 80/20 Rule to Get More Done at Home and Work

Ever feel like you're doing all the things but still not getting ahead? 

There’s a reason for that and it’s called the 80/20 rule.

Also known as the Pareto Principle, this simple but powerful concept can totally transform how you organize your space and your schedule. Let’s dig into what it means and how to use it to get more done with less effort.

What is the 80/20 Rule, Really?

The 80/20 rule says that 80% of your results come from just 20% of your effort. It’s not a strict formula, but a reminder that a small number of high-impact actions create most of your outcomes.

Think about it:

• You wear 20% of your clothes 80% of the time.

• 20% of your daily tasks drive 80% of your productivity.

• And yes, 20% of your clutter is probably causing 80% of your stress.

This principle isn’t just for CEOs and spreadsheets. It’s for you, your family, and the rhythm of your everyday life.

How to Apply the 80/20 Rule at Home

1. Declutter with Purpose

You don’t need to throw everything out. Focus on what actually gets used. Start with these questions:

• What items do I reach for most often?

• What hasn’t been touched in months (or years)?

• What’s taking up space but adding no value?

  
  

Closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? That’s a classic 80/20 scenario. Try the hanger trick: turn hangers backward, and in a few months, donate anything still facing the wrong way.

Need help editing your space? That’s where I come in. Let’s work together to simplify and organize!

2. Prioritize Your Chores

Not all chores are created equal. Focus on the small handful of tasks that keep your home running smoothly:

• A daily 10-minute tidy.

• Weekly deep clean of just the high-traffic areas.

• Putting things back where they belong (this one’s magic).

If you’re stuck in a constant cycle of cleaning and re-cleaning, it might be time to rethink your systems. I help clients create easy-to-maintain routines that work with their real lives. Book a consult today and let’s make your home feel lighter.

How to Apply the 80/20 Rule at Work

1. Identify High-Impact Tasks

Ask yourself:

• What work tasks drive the most progress?

• What could I stop doing without anyone noticing?

• Where am I spending too much time for too little return?

Once you identify your “20% tasks,” double down on them and see what you can delegate, automate, or eliminate.

2. Make Meetings More Efficient

A huge time-waster? Meetings without action. Try these quick shifts:

• Default to 45-minute meetings (it’s amazing what you can get done).

• Send agendas in advance and assign roles (like a note-taker).

• End with clear next steps.

Want more strategies like this? Check out my blog on making meetings more productive, or reach out if you need help streamlining your workflows.

Bonus: Use the 80/20 Rule for Life, Too

Simplify Your Schedule

Feeling overbooked and burned out? You might be spending energy on things that don’t matter. Try this:

• List all your regular commitments.

• Highlight the top 20% that bring the most joy or value.

• Let go of or scale back the rest (yes, it's okay to say no!).

  
  

Focus on What Fills You Up

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. What’s the small stuff that really makes you feel good?

• A short walk

• A real lunch break

• Putting your phone down for 30 minutes

These little things often give you the biggest energy boost.

Small Shifts, Big Wins

The 80/20 rule reminds us: you don’t need to do more, you just need to focus on what matters most.

Whether you're organizing a closet, planning your week, or running a business, the key is to simplify and be intentional.

✨ Need help identifying your 20%? That’s what I do! I help overwhelmed people clear clutter, build better systems, and fall in love with their spaces again.

Book a free discovery call with me today and let’s find the calm in your chaos. You don’t have to do it alone.