How Top Coaches Crush Goals Without Burning Out

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It's 7 AM, and you're already drowning in emails, client calls, and that nagging voice reminding you about the workshop you need to prepare. If you're a coach or consultant feeling like you're constantly juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle, I have something for you. Enter the 3-3-3 Method – your new best friend in the world of productivity.

What's the 3-3-3 Method?

Created by Oliver Burkeman, bestselling author of "Four Thousand Weeks," the 3-3-3 Method is a brilliantly simple way to structure your day. Here's the lowdown:

3 Hours of Deep Work: Dedicate this time to your most crucial project.

3 Shorter Tasks: Knock out those urgent to-dos.

3 Maintenance Activities: Keep your life running smoothly.

It sounds simple, but the magic is in the details.

Breaking It Down: The Power of Three

1. Three Hours of Deep Work

This is you, your most important project, and zero distractions. For coaches and consultants, this could be developing that new program, writing your book, or strategizing for a high-ticket client.

Why three hours? Science has our back on this one. Studies show that our brains can only handle about 3 to 4 hours of intense focus before they start to fizzle. So, we're working with our biology, not against it. Genius.

2. Three Shorter Tasks

These are your quick wins – the items that have been lurking on your to-do list, giving you the side-eye. Maybe it's responding to that important email, finalizing your workshop slides, or having a quick check-in with your VA.

The beauty here? You're clearing the decks of those pesky tasks that often create mental clutter. It's like Marie Kondo-ing your to-do list.

3. Three Maintenance Activities

Ladies, this is where we often drop the ball. These are the tasks that keep our lives and businesses humming along. Think: updating your books, scheduling social media posts, or – gasp – actually taking that pilates class you've been promising yourself.

By giving these activities dedicated space in your day, you're preventing the slow creep of chaos that often leads to burnout. It's self-care meets business care.

The Science Behind the Magic

Now, I know what you're thinking: "Sounds great, but does it really work?" Let's geek out for a moment on the science:

Cognitive Load Theory: Our brains have a limited capacity for processing information. By focusing on fewer, high-quality tasks, we're optimizing our cognitive resources. It's like giving your brain a First-Class upgrade instead of cramming it into Economy.

Flow State: Remember that time you were so in the zone that hours flew by? That's flow. By dedicating three hours to deep work, you're creating the perfect conditions for achieving this productivity nirvana.

Real Talk: How This Looks in Action

Let's bring this to life with a day in the life of Michelle, our hypothetical business coach:

- Deep Work (3 hours): Developing a new group coaching program

- Short Tasks (3 items):

1. Respond to urgent client email

2. Review and approve marketing copy

3. Schedule next month's podcast guests

- Maintenance (3 items):

1. 30-minute workout

2. Update financial spreadsheet

3. Plan content for next week's social media

Can you feel the structure and balance? Michelle's moving her business forward, handling urgent matters, and taking care of the back-end – all while maintaining her well-being.

Customizing for Your World

Now, I know every coach and consultant's day looks different. Maybe you're a life coach who thrives on 1:1 client sessions or a business strategist knee-deep in data analysis. The beauty of the 3-3-3 Method is its flexibility.

Your deep work might be split into two 90-minute client sessions. Your maintenance could include networking or professional development. The key is to make it work for you, your business, and your life.

Overcoming the "But I Can't" Blues

I can hear some of you now: "But Rachel, I have kids!" or "My clients need me all day!" I get it. Life happens. But here's the truth bomb: if you don't take control of your day, someone else will.

Start small. Maybe your deep work happens in the early morning before the world wakes up. Perhaps you batch your shorter tasks during your natural energy dips. The point is to start somewhere and iterate.

The Long Game: Building a Sustainable Business (and Life)

Here's where it gets really juicy. Consistently applying the 3-3-3 Method includes more than just having a good day – you will be building a thriving, sustainable business and life.

By prioritizing deep work, you're consistently moving the needle on big projects that drive growth. By tackling those shorter tasks, you're maintaining momentum and preventing backlogs. And by honoring maintenance activities, you're avoiding the burnout that sidelines so many entrepreneurs.

And, as I always say:

It's not just about doing more – it's about doing what matters, consistently and intentionally.

Your 3-3-3 Challenge

Well, my productivity-seeking friends, here's your mission, should you choose to accept it (and trust me, you want to):

1. Identify your deep work project for tomorrow.

2. List three shorter tasks that need attention.

3. Choose three maintenance activities that will keep your life and business smooth.

Try this for one week. Really commit to it. And then, I want to hear from you. How did it change your days? What challenges did you face? What wins did you celebrate?

You're not just building a business – you're crafting a life. The 3-3-3 Method is your secret weapon for doing both, with intention and joy.

Want a step-by-step guide to make this method work for you? Download the Ultimate Guide to Implementing the 3-3-3 Method for Coaches & Consultants and get started today!

Now go forth and conquer, one 3-3-3 day at a time.

Rachel Lavern is the COO of Rachel Lavern LLC and Founder of Sophix, offering tech-driven solutions to streamline operations for service-based women entrepreneurs. With 17 years of experience consulting for Fortune 100 companies, Rachel now specializes in helping consultants, business coaches, and life coaches reclaim their time and simplify their business processes. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn and Instagram or explore her latest offerings on her websites.