When I decided I wanted to implement some form of organizational system I thought it was going to be easy. I’d just read a book, follow the step by step instructions and ‘viola!’ suddenly my life was organized and happy. Well, that has not been the case.
I got this cool workflow diagram off of David Allen’s website (it was free, let me know if you want me to just email you a copy). Basically the diagram explains the whole book, but in a whole lot less time. The system is all there right in front of you. The problem is how you choose to set it up for your unique situation. None of the organizing things I’ve looked at seem uniquely tweaked to my job and my duties.
It’s so easy to continue just doing things in what ever old way you do them. Trying something new is a challenge. Usually, I like the way that I have things set-up, but it always gets to the point that I realize I could probably use a better system then I currently have.
Any advice for the disgruntled organizer?
Hi Ariah,
Start with something that’s bothering you, an itch that needs scratching, then look for where GTD matchs. What makes you say “I realize I could probably use a better system?” That’s a place to look.
I started with GTD last year, because my stress level was really high and I wasn’t dealing with mail very well — for me, separating “stuff” and “actions” (the “processing” step) made a huge difference.
The 37folders.com site has a lot of GTD content, and I find it a pleasure to read — you might get some ideas there too.