Seinfeld Strategy: Don’t Break the Chain - A Simple Yet Powerful Productivity Technique

When we want to get more done, we often look for fancy systems, cool apps, and complicated ways to manage our time. But sometimes, the easiest methods work the best. That's where the Don’t Break the Chain technique comes in—it's a simple but strong way to build habits, reach goals, and stay consistent.

What Is the Don’t Break the Chain Technique?

The Don’t Break the Chain method is all about keeping track of each day you do a certain task without missing a day. Picture a chain of X’s on a calendar, each one showing a day you stuck to your goal. The goal is to make a chain without any gaps by consistently doing what you set out to do every day.

The Origin: Jerry Seinfeld and the “Seinfeld Strategy”

Guess what? This cool way to get things done was reportedly started by a comedian called Jerry Seinfeld. It is said that he used this method to get better at making people laugh, although he debunked it later. Regardless, it was named after him and has been used by many people to become productive.

How to Implement the Don’t Break the Chain Technique

Here's a five step version:

1. Pick Your Job: Choose something you want to do regularly, like writing, exercising, reading or increasing your activity on social media.

2. Make Clear Rules: Say exactly what success means for you. Are you doing it every day? Just on weekdays? Be clear and specific about what you want to achieve.

3. Mark Your Calendar: Use a calendar, real or on a screen, and put an “X” on each day you do your task. The goal is to make a chain of X’s without missing a day.

4. See Your Progress: Seeing all those X’s adds up and makes you want to keep going. It’s like winning a little bit every day and helps you stick to your plan.

5. Don't Stop: The trick is to keep going regularly. Even if it's just a little bit, make sure you don't break the chain.

Benefits of Using This Technique

Easy to start: You basically require only a pen and a paper to start. It does not involve any complex tools or subscription to do it.

Gamification: Looking at your streak reminds you to stick to your plan. It's sort of like moving up a level in a game. It motivates you to be consistent and keep progressing like most games do.

Application: This method works for various parts of your life or job. Apply it to anything you want to do consistently and stick to.

Use Case: 7 Days of Improving Your LinkedIn Profile

Day 1: Edit your Intro. E.g. I help people —— by ——

Day 2: Upload or improve your LinkedIn banner.

Day 3: Write a catchy About.

Day 4: Check your Experience is updated with enough information.

Day 5: Add up to 50 skills if possible.

Day 6: Give and/or receive recommendations.

Day 7: Add honours/awards.

If you've already tackled some or all of these, go ahead and set different goals. Share your results with others.