Time to Put Your Hand in the Pickle Jar

No, we’re not suggesting a new addition to the school menu! In the latest instalment in our time management techniques series, we’re exploring the Pickle Jar Theory and how it can assist you in prioritising your tasks effectively

You may have come across this technique under the name “The Jar of Life Theory.” It invites you to picture your time as an empty jar and then visualise all the tasks and activities you need to fit into it. These tasks are categorised as rocks, pebbles, sand, and water, based on their size, importance and the amount of time they typically require.

Sand: phone calls, emails, social media, less necessary tasks

Pebbles: somewhat urgent tasks that have flexible deadlines

Rocks: your most important ‘must be done’ tasks

Water: your rest and relaxation time

Now it’s time to consider how you fill your day—or your jar. If you fill your jar with all the small distractions and tasks that could likely wait, it will quickly become crowded. As a result, there won’t be enough space left for the rocks—the most important activities of your day!

A crucial aspect of the Pickle Jar Technique is ensuring you don’t overload your jar with too many large rocks. It’s important to focus on what truly matters to avoid overwhelming your day with excessive big tasks. Additionally, it’s wise to reserve some space in your jar for unexpected or emergency tasks. By allocating a portion of your day as a buffer, you ensure that you have the flexibility to address urgent matters that arise without disrupting your planned activities

As busy SBLs, it often feels like you have a hundred tasks to tackle each day. But sometimes we need to spend more time on less tasks – in other words, giving more time to the rocks that take up the most room in our jar. Then we can begin to arrange our smaller tasks around them.

So, while it might feel like a juggling act with countless tasks, remember the Pickle Jar Theory to keep your priorities in check. Focus on your “rocks” first, and then fit in the “pebbles,” “sand,” and make sure you don’t forget to leave room for your “water.”

With this approach, you’ll avoid getting in a pickle and ensure your day is as well-organised as your jar!