How I use the Pareto Principle
One of the principles I use frequently is the Parento Principle, summarized as:
80% of the work will take 20% of the effort, the remaining 20% will take 80% of the effort.
How true is this? It really depends on the work.
One thing I do love about it: I will always pay 20% of the effort to get 80% of the work done, so this motivates me to start the work.
After starting the work, I end up doing more - maybe more than 80%, maybe less than 20%.
The important thing: I start on the first 80% with only 20% of the effort.
The other important thing: I respect the deadline. I rather get 80% of the work submitted by the deadline. Going for 100% will take way more effort and be after the deadline, for only 20% more.
Just using the Parento Principle to get started sooner and finished sooner has been productive for any endeavor - even writing.
The final thing I love about using the Parento Principle, is breaking down work. Get the first 80% done, take the next 20% and work on the first 80% of that. Just breaking things down slowly and yet in a structured manner (as much as I can.)
The Parento Principle is a great way to start on work, finish work on time, and breakdown work so I stay motivated on the work.