Making Sense of the Pareto Principle

I first came across the Pareto Principle (otherwise known as the 80/20 Rule) while studying Marketing at University. It states that 80% of “effects” come from 20% of the “causes”.

This means that 80% of the tasks I focus on will result in 20% of the outcomes I experience. Therefore in order to boost my effectiveness throughout the day I must begin focusing on the 20% of tasks that will reap me 80% of the rewards – and sleep the rest of the day ;)