Ever feel like you’re drowning in busyness but making no real progress? That’s because most of us get prioritisation completely backwards.
The “Rocks in the Jar” Framework Explained
Your life is a jar. You can fill it with:
- Big Rocks – The vital priorities that actually move the needle (health, relationships, core business growth)
- Pebbles – Necessary but secondary items (meetings, projects, commitments)
- Sand – The endless small tasks consuming your attention (emails, admin, social media)
Here’s the truth: fill your jar with sand first, and the rocks won’t fit. But place the rocks first, and everything else naturally settles around them.
Why Most People Prioritise Incorrectly
Most professionals let the sand dominate their days. They respond to every notification, email and minor task – convincing themselves they’re being “productive.”
They’re not.
At day’s end, they’ve completed dozens of low-impact tasks but moved nothing meaningful forward.
No one will prioritise your rocks for you. That’s your job.
Implementing the Rock-Pebble-Sand System in Your Daily Workflow
- Identify your critical rocks – What truly moves the needle? Write it down. Be ruthless.
- Schedule rocks first – Block protected time for these non-negotiables before your calendar fills.
- Let the rest fit around them – The small stuff always finds a way in. Don’t let it displace what matters.
Mastering Time Management: A Different Approach
The problem isn’t time management. It’s priority management.
When you focus on your rocks first, productivity becomes less about “getting more done” and more about “getting the right things done.”
This principle works whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or team leader.
Transform Your Productivity Today
If you’re constantly busy but feel stuck, it’s time to rearrange your jar. Put the big things first – the rest will find its place.
What are your rocks? Don’t just think about it. Decide today and watch your effectiveness transform.
Watch The Rocks In The Jar Video Now
Included in this post is a video of me telling the story of ‘The Rocks In The Jar’, which has proven to be a powerful metaphor for helping clients make real change in how they approach their work and personal lives.
I’ve also added on a useful prioritisation exercise at the end of the video. Both should be of use to you and the people around you.
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