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How I Used My 3×3 Rule to Trade “Outwork” for “Intention” (and 10x’d my happiness)
For years, I thought success meant outworking everyone—first in, last out, sacrificing weekends, always pushing for more. Like most high-performing guys, I lived the statistic: 94% of us value hard work above nearly everything else.
But that drive had a price. I’d compare my output to others, feeling inadequate if I wasn’t the hardest worker around. I even avoided certain gyms to dodge that pressure.
Three years ago, I created my first Midlife Action Plan (MAP) and had a revelation: what got me here won’t get me where I want to go—or help me live the way I want.
My Daily Framework
My day starts at 6 a.m., no alarm needed. My morning routine? Simple: urinate, hydrate, caffeinate. Then, 20-30 minutes each of reading (lately audiobooks), writing, and outreach. I train from 8 to 9:30 a.m. But the real magic begins at 10 a.m. with my 3×3 Rule.
The 3×3 Rule Explained
Every day, I tackle three personal and three professional tasks. That’s it—my optimal bandwidth. I jot them down each morning on a custom pad (index cards work too). I’m like a golden retriever—throw the ball, I’ll fetch it—so this clarity keeps me focused and distraction-free.
The Transformation
The 3×3 Rule has reshaped my life:
Prevented Burnout: Six meaningful priorities beat endless to-do lists, keeping exhaustion at bay.
Improved Focus: Knowing my tasks cuts wasted energy on decisions or distractions.
Created Balance: Equal personal and professional focus keeps one from overshadowing the other.
Set Boundaries: I no longer feel pressured to say yes or measure up to others.
Built Consistency: Daily wins fuel momentum, not sporadic heroics.
At 52, I’ve learned success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters. The 3×3 Rule traded “outwork” for intention, proving simplicity can be the ultimate strategy.
Redefining Success
We all say there’s not enough time, but it’s how we use it that counts. For years, I bought the lie that outworking everyone defined my worth—chasing more clients, revenue, and achievements. A Wall Street Journal survey backs this: Americans prioritize hard work (94%) over self-fulfillment (91%) or marriage (70%).
But my MAP flipped the script. I ditched the 24/7 “sleep when I’m dead” grind and embraced being outworked. Funny thing? Limiting myself to six daily tasks opened up more time, energy, and creative space than ever.
By focusing on what matters most, I’ve built a life with less hustle and more harmony. I call it “Low Friction Living”. The 3×3 Rule is proof that the best way forward is often the simplest.
Recently I was profiled in AGEIST and I went into more detail on my 3×3 rule, and how I stay disciplined to it, what my days look like, and how I approach balance, work with my coaching clients, run a business, be a good husband, father and provider, and prioritize my health. I don’t profess to have it all figured out, but I’m learning and that’s why we’re all here, Read the full interview HERE.
I also like this piece from the WSJ about how going all in is no recipe for success. Read it HERE
And finally, Tim Ferriss recently shared an interesting post on Instagram that dovetails nicely with this column and my 3×3 mentality. Read it here.
ICYMI:
Here are the most popular pieces from this past Sunday’s Midlife Male Issue:
How Bobby Maximus Sees It: Why Your Authentic Self is the Only One that Matters
Maximizing Bucket List Family Trips (and the stuff you don’t see on Instagram)
Lastly, my friend, Chris Salgardo, founded Atwater Skincare. He’s the former President of Kiehls and has over 30 years of experience in the skincare industry. I love the entire line and have been waiting for them to release a moisturizer with SPF in it and they just did; The Atwater Skin Armor Mineral Facial SPF 50+ Moisturizer. As a bald guy who burns easily, a great facial moisturizer with SPF that doesn't cause me to break out and look greasy is essential and i’ve been using this for 6 weeks now and it's tremendous. Check it out here. And use code MIDLIFEMALE to get 20% off your order.
In health,
Greg
Husband, Father, and Founder of Midlife Male
Midlife Male Approved
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