
Before Breakfast
In each bite-sized, daily episode of Before Breakfast, host Laura Vanderkam shares a time management strategy or an answer to a listener’s schedule question. How can listeners make the most of their time, both at work and at home? The mission is to give listeners practical tools to feel less busy and get more done.
Latest episodes

4 snips
Sep 11, 2024 • 5min
Get it done by Thursday
Discover the Thursday Finish Strategy to supercharge your productivity! Learn how completing tasks by Thursday can create breathing room for the unexpected. This method not only reduces stress but also enhances your ability to reflect and plan. Say goodbye to frantic Fridays and hello to a more relaxed work environment!

Sep 10, 2024 • 4min
Solve one nagging problem today
Explore the power of tackling minor problems for a brighter tomorrow. The discussion highlights how addressing small, nagging issues can significantly enhance your well-being. Through relatable stories, listeners are encouraged to take action today, fostering a sense of accomplishment and easing life's burdens. Discover how a simple resolution can lead to greater satisfaction and a more peaceful everyday experience.

Sep 9, 2024 • 6min
Build up the excitement
Discover how building anticipation for upcoming events can amplify your enjoyment. A personal tale about preparing for an Olivia Rodrigo concert illustrates the joy of immersing in related activities. Learn strategies to enhance excitement and overcome fears of disappointment. The beauty of waiting is explored, revealing how sometimes the thrill of anticipation can be more pleasurable than the event itself. Reflect on your own methods of generating excitement and consider the impacts of cancellations on your eagerness.

Sep 8, 2024 • 7min
Second Cup: Don't be minute wise and hour foolish
Explore the mindset of being hour-wise rather than minute-wise to enhance productivity. Discover practical tips for effective time management that prioritize what truly matters. Learn how to evaluate your daily tasks for better planning and a healthier work-life balance. This discussion highlights the dangers of focusing too much on trivial details, especially in remote work scenarios. Embrace a more flexible approach to maximize your time efficiency and enjoy the bigger picture.

Sep 7, 2024 • 6min
Second Cup: Put a toe in the water
Consider testing the waters before diving into commitments. Learn how trying out social gatherings can help you assess enjoyment without the pressure of long-term plans. Practical tips on organizing events bring a new perspective to logistics and collaboration. Embrace experimentation to find out what truly fits your lifestyle and interests.

Sep 6, 2024 • 5min
Subscribe and save with time
Discover how a process-oriented approach can streamline your daily life. Learn about the power of subscriptions to cut down on decision fatigue. Simplifying routines not only saves time but also allows you to focus on what truly matters. Enjoy more freedom for fun activities by making smart choices just once.

Sep 5, 2024 • 5min
It's not as disposable as you think
Explore the surprising longevity of single-use items and how they can often be reused creatively. Discover practical tips for rethinking disposal habits and reducing waste in your daily life. Learn how everyday objects can take on new purposes, promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.

Sep 4, 2024 • 5min
Make it about them, not you
Tackle imposter syndrome by shifting your focus from self-promotion to serving others. Discover how prioritizing service creates authentic relationships and fosters professional growth. Emphasizing a mindset of helping can not only alleviate feelings of inadequacy but also enhance your connections in the workplace.

Sep 3, 2024 • 6min
Don't decorate with cereal boxes
Visible items shape your home's decor, so it's crucial to curate them intentionally. Merging aesthetics with practicality is key—reduce clutter while ensuring everyday items are beautiful and accessible. Challenge the norm of using mundane objects as decor. Reassess what's on display, particularly in the kitchen, and consider decluttering to elevate your space. Listeners are encouraged to share their decluttering journeys for a more engaging experience.

Sep 2, 2024 • 4min
Keep your summer spirit
As summer fades, the sparkle of joy can still shine bright in our lives. Listeners are inspired to prioritize happiness and embrace the wild spirit of summer, regardless of responsibilities. The discussion encourages cherishing fleeting joys while maintaining a sense of adventure year-round. Tips on fostering spontaneity and keeping that summer spirit alive remind us that life’s little pleasures can be savored every day.