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A simple method for minds tired of systems.
No app, no pressure.

What You’ll Need

  • A notebook or journal

  • A pen (nothing fancy)

  • A few quiet minutes each day

That’s it.
No software, no setup, no features to learn.
Just space to think — and a simple focus list to guide you.

When the tools get simpler, the thinking gets sharper.

Open notebook with pen on wooden surface

Choose What Matters

Each morning, pause and ask:
What matters today?
What will move me forward — even a little?

Write down up to eight small, meaningful actions.
Some days it’ll be two. Some days more.
Eight is the limit — not the goal.

A limit isn’t a restriction.
It’s what makes choice possible.

What ‘matters’ means in Eightly

In Eightly, what matters isn’t everything you could do — it’s what makes a real difference.

What matters is something that:
– Moves something forward
– Brings something to a close
– Prevents a problem
– Shapes a decision or direction
– Keeps things steady
– Connects with someone
– Restores balance
– Defines or realigns purpose
– Enables others or builds capability

These filters can help you decide what deserves a place on your list. They’re not rules — just quiet prompts for clear, deliberate choice.

The 6 Core Rules of Eightly

These six rules are your foundation. Keep them in mind and the method will look after itself.

  1. Eight is the Limit
    Write up to 8 items. Never more. The boundary sharpens attention.

  2. Start Fresh
    Begin a new list each day (or week). Don’t carry things over by default.

  3. Keep It Visible
    Put it where you’ll see it — notebook, whiteboard, or shared page.

  4. Choose Again Tomorrow
    Missed items aren’t failures. Choose them again if they still matter.

  5. The Reason Rule (if shared)
    If more than one person is using the list, give each item a reason.

  6. Reflect and Improve
    End the day with a quick review — what worked, what didn’t, and what you’ll adjust next time.

Take Action, Gently

As you move through the day:

  • Cross off what gets done

  • Let go of what doesn’t

  • Come back to your list when you need clarity

This isn’t about getting everything done.
It’s about getting the right things done.
Progress — not pressure.

Want to explore further?

Here are four quick reads to deepen your understanding of how Eightly works and how you might begin:

  • How to Theme Your Eightly — Discover how setting a simple theme can bring direction to your day and help you choose what matters.

  • Why Lists Should Have a Limit — Learn why limiting your list to eight items each day changes everything — and how to try it.

  • Start Fresh, Every Day — Understand the power of beginning each day anew — no carry-forward by default, just a clear decision about what matters now.

  • The First Small Move — Planning is one thing; acting is another. See how making just the first move unlocks momentum.

Write, Reflect and Return

At the end of the day — or the next morning — take a moment to review.
What worked? What didn’t?

You’re not tracking performance.
You’re reinforcing a clarity.

You write.
You reflect.
You return.

That’s the method.
One notebook. One clear list. One fresh start tomorrow.
Do what matters — every day.