“Young man,” said Carnegie, squinting dubiously at the consultant, “if you can tell me something about management that is worth hearing, I will send you a check for ten thousand dollars.” Now, ten thousand dollars was a great deal of money in 1890. Conversation stopped as the people nearby turned to hear what Taylor would say. “Mr. Carnegie,” Taylor said, “I would advise you to make a list of the ten most important things you can do. And then, start doing number one.” And, the story goes, a week later Taylor received a check for ten thousand dollars.
I've heard this story with many different characters. Charles Schwab and Ivy Lee seem the most credible.
https://www.fastcompany.com/3062946/this-100-year-old-to-do-list-hack-still-works-like-a-charm
