Can't Stomach The Frog? Try A Cookie Instead

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In 2001, personal development expert Brian Tracy introduced the now famous "Eat that Frog" productivity principle. For those unfamiliar with the technique, Eat that Frog is about tackling the biggest, hardest, and most important task on your to-do list first thing in the morning. It’s a brilliant strategy to beat procrastination. One that I have (and still do) benefit from myself.

But sometimes, the pressure to tackle our biggest challenges right away can paradoxically lead to task paralysis, leaving us stuck in an endless loop of inaction and frustration. On days when I’m feeling too distracted, tired, or overwhelmed or when I resume work after taking PTO, I often struggle to face that slimy frog, let alone eat it first thing in the AM.

This is where I use a gentler, tried-and-tested approach that I call "Eat the Cookie First." It’s about starting your day with any small and easy yet meaningful task of your choice. That’s your "cookie." It could be something as simple as making your bed, watering your plants, or sorting the mail. The idea is to start small to help reduce the friction of starting and build momentum gradually to tackle larger, more complex tasks.

Each small task or cookie you are able to eat is a win. These small wins trigger the release of dopamine, our brain's reward chemical. This positive reinforcement and sense of accomplishment fuels what scientists call the "progress principle." The more micro-wins we achieve, the more motivated we become to take on bigger challenges.

How to "Eat the Cookie First" Effectively

Here are three simple ways to implement the “Eat the Cookie First” method:

• Choose your cookie wisely: Your "cookie" task should be meaningful enough to matter but simple enough to complete in a few minutes. Like updating your calendar, feeding your pet, or folding your laundry.
• Build your task bridge: Think of your cookie as the first plank in a bridge leading to bigger tasks. After completing your initial task, gradually work your way through bigger items on your to-do list. This can make it feel less daunting than diving straight into deep water.
• Use the momentum: Once you've eaten your cookie, use that sense of accomplishment to fuel your next action. Remember Newton's First Law of Motion? Objects at rest tend to stay at rest. Objects in motion tend to stay in motion. The same holds true for productivity. Your micro-wins can create the momentum needed to handle more complex tasks.

And lastly, remember, productivity isn't about forcing yourself to get things done. It’s about creating systems and environments that help you meet your goals without burning out. Some days, you might feel ready to eat that frog first thing. Other days, you might need to start with a cookie. Both approaches are valid.

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See you next week!

Stay well,

Noma