From: Leon from LifeHack - Friday Apr 25, 2025 02:07 pm
LifeHack Newsletter
one-tab rule that made my workday quieter
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Hi there,

The average professional has more than 23 browser tabs open right now. It sounds like just a number, but when you add them up, it turns your digital workspace into something closer to a messy closet. I was used to juggling a digital jungle myself, until I tried the one-tab rule—only keeping open what I’m actively working on.

The One-Tab Rule That Made My Workday Quieter

Here's why it works:

1. Instant clarity with fewer tabs: Every open tab is another drain on your focus. Cognitive studies have found that multitasking can cut your productivity by as much as 40%. Trimming your tabs—even if just down to one or two—clears up your screen, but more importantly, it frees up your attention.

2. Bookmark folders instead of “just in case” tabs: If you’re in the habit of keeping tabs open for articles you might read “someday,” try this: create bookmark folders by topic (work, reading list, research). Move interesting pages there. Think of it as sorting paperwork into labeled trays instead of piling it on your desk. You’ll come back to them when you actually have time, without the visual noise.

3. Schedule quick digital cleanups: Once a week, spend a few minutes reviewing your digital workspace—close out unused tabs, delete old bookmarks, and tidy up your desktop. This simple habit keeps digital clutter from building up, so your devices work for you instead of adding stress.

Try this simple step today: close every browser tab you don’t need for your current work. If there’s something worth saving, bookmark it or drop it on a quick reference list. Like clearing off your kitchen counter, you’ll feel the difference right away.

"You might be surprised just how much sharper you think with a digital desk as clear as your kitchen counter."

Digital Declutter Pro Tip

• Create separate bookmark folders—for work, reading, research—to keep things sorted but accessible.

• Schedule 5-minute digital cleanups weekly—close unused tabs, delete bookmarks you no longer need, and tidy your desktop.

• If in doubt, close the tab! You can always find it later via bookmarks or browser history.

LifeHack All-Access: Your Digital Sanity Toolkit

If you’re looking for more ways to turn chaos into clarity, LifeHack All-Access can help. It comes with step-by-step digital decluttering guides, productivity tools, and an AI Life Coach to help you focus on what really matters.

LifeHack All-Access
Explore Digital Sanity Strategies

Best,
Leon
Founder & CEO LifeHack

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