The four-quadrant method seeks to provide a visual design of the possible outcomes of a goal we contemplate undertaking. The most fascinating aspect of this method is that it allows us to explore the consequences of not meeting a goal. Most goal setters ask themselves the question: “What will happen if this happens? However, there aren't enough people who consider the implications of events that might or might not happen if they don't achieve a goal. In fact, I use a platform called eisedo, which automatically prioritizes my tasks in one of the four quadrants.
In an ideal case, the amygdala and the frontal lobe work together to maintain focus on the situations and behaviors that lead to the achievement of that goal and, at the same time, make you ignore and avoid situations and behaviors that don't. For example, tasks in the Urgent and Important quadrants should be managed immediately, as they are important and require immediate attention. Another way would be to evaluate how important a particular goal is to us, to have a complete idea of the chances of success. For example, a goal like “I don't want to be sad anymore” after a tragic breakup would be more effectively accomplished if it were said like this: “I want to be happy.” By understanding how these tasks fit into each quadrant, you can quickly identify which tasks should be addressed first and prioritize them accordingly.
The tasks in the “Not Urgent but Important” quadrant should also be prioritized, since they are important even if they do not require immediate attention. According to experts, this time management quadrant consists of being aware of the vital influence of the relationship between one thing and another. In other words, direct your goal toward what you do want instead of moving it away from what you don't want to achieve. However, if you want to measure your chances of success or understand the importance of a goal for your whole being, the four-quadrant method provides a direct and fruitful analysis.
To help you be more productive, it's helpful to understand the 4 quadrants of the time management matrix.
