Eat the frog: How to tackle your hardest task first with Superlist

We all have that one task we keep putting off. It is big, it feels difficult, or maybe it is just not fun. Yet it is often the most important thing we need to get done.

The Eat the frog method is a simple productivity approach that helps you stop procrastinating and start achieving more.

What does “Eat the frog” mean?

The idea comes from a quote often attributed to Mark Twain: “If it is your job to eat a frog, it is best to do it first thing in the morning.”

Your “frog” is the most important or most challenging task on your list. The one that, if completed, will make the biggest difference to your day. By tackling it first, you build momentum and make the rest of your tasks feel lighter.

Why it works

• Beats procrastination: You no longer waste energy avoiding your biggest task.

• Boosts focus: Starting with one clear priority sets the tone for the day.

• Builds momentum: Once the hardest thing is done, everything else feels easier.

• Creates consistency: Turning this into a daily habit helps you make steady progress on what matters most.

How to apply “Eat the frog” with Superlist

1. Identify your frog

   Each evening, open your Superlist Inbox and review your tasks. Pick the single most important or challenging task for tomorrow. Mark your most important task as "High Priority".

2. Make it stand out

   • Add a due date so it appears clearly in your Today view.

   • Add priority levels to your tasks and sort your Inbox or Today view by priority

   • Or create a dedicated list in your sidebar called “Important 🐸” and move your frog task there.

3. Plan your morning

   Open your Today view and make sure your frog task is at the top of your focus. If possible, block time on your calendar to work on it without distractions.

4. Do it first

   When you start your day, open Superlist and go straight to your frog. Skip emails, messages, or smaller tasks until it is done.

5. Check it off

   Mark it complete in Superlist and enjoy the sense of relief. You will notice how much lighter and more focused the rest of your day feels

Start tomorrow with a frog

Productivity is not about doing more. It is about doing what matters. The “Eat the frog” method helps you move forward on your biggest priorities instead of getting stuck in busywork.

With Superlist, you can give your most important task visibility, tackle it first, and start every day with a win.

👉 Try it tonight: Open Superlist, choose tomorrow’s frog, and get ready to start your day with clarity and focus.