Dwight D. Eisenhower said: “What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important.“ What's the difference between Urgent and Important tasks then? Urgent to-do's are shouting “DO ASAP” and require immediate attention. Urgent to-do's can put us in a reactive mode, one illustrated by a hurried and negative mindset. Important usually put us in a responsive mode. These tasks contribute to our long-term goals and mission. Sometimes important tasks become urgent, but typically they're not. We can remain calm and rational when working on Important tasks in a responsive mode.