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Get It Done
1-2-3 Get It Done: The “End Before You Start” Rule That Doubles Output
sent by Joaquín Kosegarten | October 28, 2025
Every second counts, so let’s get right to it. 1 idea, 2 ways it saves you time, and 3 steps to Get It Done:
1 Idea
Before you start a task, decide what “done” looks like.
2 Ways it saves you time
1. Increases momentum — When you know exactly what the goal is, you stop overthinking and start doing.
2. Eliminates wasted effort — When you know what “good enough” looks like, you don’t overdo it, redo it, or drift off track.
3 Steps to Get It Done:
1. Pause before starting — Ask yourself: “What does “done” look like?” Write it in one sentence.
2. Set a time limit — Commit to how long you’ll spend. This prevents perfectionism and forces progress.
3. Keep the goal in sight — Put your “done” sentence where you can see it, on a sticky note, whiteboard, or at the top of your document.
Conclusion
When you know what “done” looks like, your brain knows where to aim.
No more guessing or wandering. Just clear action that ends in “done.”
“But what if the task changes while I’m doing it?”
That’s okay. You can update your definition of “done” as you go. Remember, starting without clarity is what causes confusion. Begin with a clear end in mind, then adjust if needed.
As promised — 1 minute that can save you hours
Yours in Getting It Done,
Joaquin Kosegarten
Author of Get It Done
Creator of the 1-2-3 Get It Done Newsletter
P.S. I’ve started applying this to emails too. Before writing, I ask, “What’s the one idea I want to share with my readers?” Keeps me from turning every email into new book volumes. ✍️📚
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The “End Before You Start” Rule That Doubles Output
About the Newsletter
1-2-3 Get It Done is a weekly 1-minute read trusted by busy professionals who want to achieve more in less time without burning out.
Each issue gives you 1 idea, 2 ways it saves you time, and 3 steps to put it into action immediately.