# You can't rely on motivation

You can’t rely on motivation to crush your to-do list.

<br>

The real key to productivity?

<br>

Experimenting with \*many\* different mental models and finding what works for you&#x20;

<br>

There’s no one-size-fits-all method – but here’s what I’ve found works for me ⬇️

<br>

The first step is capturing everything on my plate in a system 👩‍💻

<br>

I use a mix of GTD (getting things done) + agile methodologies – both of which break down projects into smaller, manageable tasks 📝

<br>

Next, I prioritize using the Pareto Principle and Eisenhower Matrix

<br>

These help me figure out what needs to be prioritized – and I always tackle the biggest hitters first 🎯

<br>

Finally, I execute my tasks using the Pomodoro technique and timeblocking deadlines.

<br>

I work on consistently achieving flow + creating moments for deep work 🧘‍♀️

<br>

If you’re new to mental models, give these a try + see what works for you.

<br>


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://blog.smarty.ai/my-founders-journey/my-personal-productivity-journey/musings/you-cant-rely-on-motivation.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.