The Napoleon Technique: Postponing Things to Increase Productivity – Effectiviology

The Napoleon technique is a productivity method where you intentionally postpone dealing with non-urgent matters that may resolve themselves without your input. Based on Napoleon's practice of leaving letters unopened for three weeks, this approach helps conserve time and energy by filtering out issues that don't truly require immediate attention. The technique works best for minor, routine matters where delayed action carries minimal risk, such as waiting before responding to non-urgent emails or addressing potential issues that may never materialize. Key considerations include weighing potential benefits against risks, avoiding procrastination disguised as strategic delay, and setting clear deadlines to prevent indefinite postponement.