I've been inspired by another passionate web logger. Merlin Mann runs a blog called 43 folders. He writes about productivity tips based on the guidelines put forth by David Allen in his book Getting Things Done. Merlin is also a Mac users so his app suggestions are usually freeware apps for OS X.
His passion got me to buy and read David Allen's book. Here's what i've learned so far. In his book, Allen puts forth a system to organize all of the stuff in your life with the ultimate goal of keeping you more productive by helping you to always be "in the zone." He says the basic reason we may have trouble focusing is that the brain has limited resources it can use to either think about things, or to remember things. When your brain is full of things it's supposed to remember, it takes away from the power you would rather be using solving problems or actually getting things done. By establishing a process of downloading these reminders from your conscious thought to an electronic or paper system you completely trust, you can tap into greater mental power.
I love the idea of being "in the zone." Every now and then i have those days where i just cut though projects and feel great about the results. I had a day like that on Friday when i finally got a bunch of things off my white-board that have been haunting me for months. I'm interested in anything that can help me have more days like that.
I hope i didn't make the plan suggested by the book sound too grandiose. It seems like a very reasonable and practical way to tackle work. One of the guidelines involves managing and clearing your in-boxes (e-mail, voicemail, or even paper). I'm an e-mail pack-rat and my personal in-box had 600 or so messages that i've whittled down to ten (which still should be reduced once i set up some more lists). Over the weekend i've also cleaned out stacks of "stuff" that needed to be thrown away, filed, or followed up on. I can totally see the color of my desk again. Tomorrow i'll see if i can get my work stuff in order as well.
Posted by Matthew at November 7, 2004 07:13 PMOkay, enough already! I give up. Seems like everywhere I turn someone is recommending this book. You are the final straw - It's on its way.
Posted by: Jack at November 8, 2004 11:07 PM