The 10-Minute Rule: If It Takes Longer, Automate It

Most leaders talk about working smarter, not harder. Here's a rule that actually forces you to do it.

I run this software development company, here at Lucus Labs, and my time gets pulled in about 47 different directions every day. Strategy calls. Client meetings. Product decisions. The usual chaos.

So I created a simple rule for myself and my team to help better manage our time:

If it takes longer than 10 minutes and you'll do it again — automate it.

Could be a script. A template. An integration. Whatever. Just stop doing it manually.

If you're a software company like us, that could mean automating your builds, tests, and deployments. You could use AI to automate maintenance of your inbox, send follow-up emails after meetings or sales calls, generate invoices and payment reminders. The list is endless.

Here's the thing: automation isn't really about saving time. It's about saving your attention.

Every repetitive task chips away at your focus. That's energy you could be using to solve actual problems, mentor your team, or build something that matters.

This rule changed how I work. Now, before I get stuck in a loop, I ask:

- Can I automate this?
- Can I simplify it?
- Can I kill it entirely?

The result? Less busywork. More deep work. Actual progress.

Sometimes "working smarter" is just having the discipline to stop doing things that don't deserve your brain power.

So here's my question for you: What 10-minute task keeps eating your day?

Drop it in the comments. Let's figure out how to kill it together.

And if this resonates, give it a repost. Let's help more founders and business owners get their time back.

Need help automating the chaos in your business? DM me — let's talk.

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