“Who can define for us with accuracy the difference between the long and short term! Especially whenever our affairs seem to be in crisis, we are almost compelled to give our first attention to the urgent present rather than to the important future.”
- D. Eisenhower – five-star general & 34th president of US
What is a Eisenhower Matrix?
A 2x2 matrix (also known as the Fourth Gear or Magic Quadrant) is a decision support technique that allows you to draw options on a 2x2 matrix.
A Eisenhower matrix is a simple square divided into four equal quadrants. Each axis represents a decision criterion urgency / importance for time management. Each axis is divided into two parts (e.g. low / high of urgency and importance).
General Eisenhower, who was responsible for the World War II. Also the President of the United States. Throughout his military career and his career as president, he has faced constant decisions. He has this sentence:
“What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important.”
- Dwight D. Eisenhower.
He developed a decision matrix to help him determine the focus of attention. In essence, he layered the two attributes of mutual importance and urgency.
