Getting started with Getting Things Done
A quick start guide to using GTD to maintain peak productivity
Since being published over 20 years ago, Getting Things Done (GTD)by David Allen has been one of those productivity techniques that has influenced millions. The book is VERY detailed into the nuts and bolts of the system and if you’re struggling with productivity, a worthwhile read.
However, if you’re in the midst of tasks piling up and want the TL/DR version, this post is for you! I hope to summarise the main concepts and key tactics down so that you can understand the philosophy. For more details and really nitty-gritty tactics and techniques, I recommend heading to the GTD book. So without further ado, here’s how to get started with Getting Things Done.
Principles/Philosophy
The brain is best for execution/creation and less for storing lists
GTD ultimately is guided by the notion that your brain is better at executing/thinking/creating that storing lists and reminders, which seem tedious and inefficient. The solution is to create a trusted system that captures information, be it tasks, resource information, due dates etc and shows you relevant things when required.
