Finding My Rhythm: The Real Talk About Balancing Work and Studies as an International Student

Introduction: The "List of Doom"

We’ve all been there. It’s Monday morning, you’ve got your coffee, and you sit down to write your to-do list. By the time you’re done, you have twenty-five tasks staring back at you. You feel productive just writing them. But then 3:00 PM hits. You’ve checked off two tiny things, you’re exhausted, and the rest of the list feels like a mountain you’ll never climb. You end up scrolling on your phone for three hours because your brain has effectively "shut down" from the pressure.

​I used to live in this cycle of "Productive Procrastination" until I discovered the 1-3-5 Rule. This isn't just a scheduling trick; it’s a psychological framework that respects the limits of your brain. In this 2,500-word masterclass, I’m going to break down why your current lists are failing you and how to rebuild your life around "The Power of Nine."

From a learning and productivity perspective, structured task management helps reduce cognitive overload and improves focus. The 1-3-5 rule is a simple method that aligns with how the brain processes priorities.

​Part 1: The Psychology of Choice Paralysis

​Why do long lists make us freeze? It’s called Decision Fatigue. Every time you look at a list of twenty items, your brain has to decide which one to do next. That decision costs energy. By the time you’ve picked a task, you’ve already used up the mental "fuel" you needed to actually do the work.

​Part 2: Breaking Down the 1-3-5 Framework

​The rule is simple: On any given day, you only have the capacity for one big thing, three medium things, and five small things.

​The "One" Big Thing (The Needle Mover)

​This is your most important task. It’s the one that requires your "Peak Focus" (Post #8). If you only did this one thing today, you would still feel successful.

• ​Examples: Writing a major essay draft, studying the hardest chapter of Chemistry, or prepping for a presentation.

​The "Three" Medium Things

​These are important but don't require 100% of your cognitive battery.

• ​Examples: Attending a lecture, completing a weekly math problem set, or a 30-minute gym session.

​The "Five" Small Things

​These are "Administrative" tasks. They are quick but necessary.

• ​Examples: Replying to emails, booking a tutor, tidying your desk, or grocery shopping.

​Part 3: Implementation Strategy

​The "Night Before" Routine: Never write your 1-3-5 list in the morning. Your morning brain is too optimistic and will try to sneak in a second "Big Thing." Write it at night when you’re tired and realistic about what you can actually achieve tomorrow.

When the 1-3-5 Rule May Not Work

Like any productivity method, the 1-3-5 rule may not suit every situation. Some days require flexibility, unexpected tasks, or collaborative work. The rule should be adapted rather than followed rigidly.

About the Author-

Bitty is an education content creator who writes about learning skills, personal development, and simple educational concepts. Learn with Bitty aims to support lifelong learning through clear and practical content.