There is a 4-Quadrant visual tool people use to evaluate how to prioritize work. It’s called the Eisenhower Matrix. It has two axis; urgency and importance.

Quadrant 1 is home for needed action that is both urgent and important. Obviously quadrant 1 should always get your first and best attention, but luckily life doesn’t happen in Quadrant 1 often. That would be exhausting. Opposite of that is Quadrant 4 where things live that are not urgent and not important. No one needs to spend time there.

The real key is whether we live most of our lives in the Quadrant 2 or Quadrant 3. Things that demand our attention but may not be that important are Quadrant 3. That’s the door bell or message notification or telemarketer wanting your attention and along with so many other things. In contrast, a rich and productive life is lived out in Quadrant 2. It’s not pressing, but it is important. Time spent in Quadrant 2 is an investment into things that matter.

Quadrant 2 & IDRN

Engaging with IDRN may not be pressing, but it is important. It is also a great way to prepare for when you find yourself in Quadrant 1 when it is both important AND urgent.