From Overwhelm to Flow in 15 Minutes

When the to-do list feels endless, starting is the hardest part.

I use a reset that works in classrooms, boardrooms, and at my own desk. It’s simple: 5–5–5.

• Five minutes: Write everything on your mind — no editing.
• Five minutes: Group items into “Do now,” “Plan,” and “Let go.”
• Five minutes: Start the smallest “Do now” item.

I learned this while working with teachers in the DBE’s entrepreneurship education pilot. Many had competing demands from the curriculum, admin, and their learners. This quick process helped them get unstuck and model problem-solving for their students.

You don’t need perfect tools — pen and paper works fine. The goal isn’t to finish the list. It’s to regain momentum.