When it comes to productivity, a simple system is often going to trump a very complex one. There’s a very obvious reason for that, a complex system usually takes more time and effort to manage and is harder to remember. Something which is simple gets out of the way for you and lets you focus on the important part of productivity; getting your work done.
A Too Complex System
For a long time, I felt like I ought to follow orthodox GTD and any straying from the true path might lead to destruction. I tried and tried to make sense of “context” but they just didn’t stick for me. I got the idea, but it was too much hassle to integrate them, and trying to work out what the “right context” was when I was quickly adding a task just failed.
So I always reverted to a simpler system.
Adjustable System
Now I basically follow “getting results the Agile way” method which I find useful as it adapts for me. There are some core suggestions (focusing on results, lay out your top three priorities for the day, workout your larger picture goals and pick habits to match those goals, do a review at the end of the week) and there are add-on actions and habits (monthly/ yearly reviews, making evidence and outcomes) which I can pick up or drop when needs be.
This means that when I’m up against the wall, I can use my simple list and trust it’s okay, but when I have a bit more time and face the feeling of not knowing where to go, I can step back and make things a bit more complex.
Is your system too complex?
What’s your task management system or approach? Do you find it is too complex, or maybe it’s too simple for you?
Blessing Mpofu says
Yes, simple doesn’t necessarily mean shallow. I keep hearing about Agile. Any recommendations or primers, Chris?