5 Steps of Getting Things Done

5 Steps of Getting Things Done

1. 1. Capture

   • Collect what has your attention.
   • Look for physically unusual objects
     • Use an "in" tray
     • Open Loop
       • An unfulfilled commitment one has made with oneself.
   • Perform a Mind Sweep
     • Removing things from your mind that have your attention.
     • Meditation
     • Capture them on paper, one per page.
       • Find a place to store it.
         • Planner
       • Carry it on you if possible.
         • Bag
     • Your head is not for holding ideas.

2. 2. Clarify

   • Process what it means.
   • Define what it is, determine whether it's actionable or not.
     • Maybe is a no.
     • No
       • Trash
       • Reassess later
       • Reference Material
     • Yes
       • What's the next action?

3. 3. Organize

   • Put it where it belongs.
   • Delegate it
     • Waiting
   • Defer it.
     • Calendar
     • Next Actions
       • Organize by context
     • Project List

4. 4. Reflect

   • Review frequently.
   • Build in a weekly review to reflect on your projects.
   • Look forward and backward on the calendar
   • Put it at the end of the week.

5. 5. Engage

   • Simply do.

6. 2.5 Understanding the three Ds

   • Will an action take less than 2 minutes?
     • Yes
       • Do it
     • No
       • Delegate it.
       • Defer it.