Laura Vanderkam Priority Review
The Laura Vanderkam priority review structures your morning around three core areas before you check email.
5 time blocks, 10 minutes in total.
Time blocks
- Pause Before Inbox: 2 min
Keep your email client closed and grab a paper notebook - Select Personal Priority: 2 min
Choose one goal for health, learning, or personal care - Select Relationship Priority: 2 min
Pick one meaningful connection to nurture today - Select Work Priority: 2 min
Identify one core deliverable that moves projects forward - Schedule Priority Blocks: 2 min
Slot the three items directly into today's calendar
About this routine
The Laura Vanderkam priority review centers on setting daily intentions before external demands flood in. By opening a notebook instead of an email inbox, you decide how to spend your energy across three core areas of life: self, relationships, and work.
Most people start the day reactively by checking messages. Vanderkam recommends picking one key intention for personal health or growth, one for family or social connection, and one for professional output. Framing choices around these three categories keeps life balanced.
After selecting the three targets, place them into your calendar immediately. Following this step by step morning routine ensures that personal care and relationships get real space alongside professional tasks.
Why this routine works
- Prevents early morning reactive email scrolling
- Ensures personal and relationship goals receive equal focus with work
- Creates realistic daily expectations by choosing three core tasks
FAQ
What is Laura Vanderkam's three category priority system?
It is a planning method where you pick one priority each for work, relationships, and personal life before starting your daily tasks.
Why review priorities before opening email?
Opening email forces you into reactive mode. Reviewing priorities first keeps your focus on proactive goals.