I really like my current organisation system, but I have noticed one serious flaw recently; it is very easy to procrastinate when I’m selecting tasks.
My energy levels have been very low over the last few months so I am frequently coming home and going for a lie down followed by bed. This change in my evening activities is becoming noticeable in what I am not achieving, such as writing blog posts, tidying the house or, I have to admit, completing anything off my list. Although things are better at work I am also finding it more difficult to focus there than usual.
I need to develop a new system that quickly highlights the next task I should be working on, instead of my current approach of looking through sheet after sheet of written actions. However I’m not thinking of replacing my system because I think the fundamentals are good, I am just looking for different ways of using it in a more efficient manner.
I think this means trying digital solutions, however I am aware of two issues with going digital. One I have not found a digital solution that meets my needs in the past and two I LOVE digital so I know I can get carried away and end up spend my time perfecting the solution rather than completing any of the tasks on the list.
So do you have any advice on how I can get started on the next stage of my system’s development?
I'm a working mum of two children, and I'm keen to make the most of what is important to me. This starts by capturing information whether it is a photograph or a task list. I love a process and try to find the most efficient method of doing things from organising photographs to planning a house renovation. I believe everything benefits from being simpler.
Hello.
I’m using now a system which combines digital and analog and try to integrate GTD and DIT. I use a software called EssentialPIM (www.essentialpim.com)as a central repository for tasks. It’s like Outlook without the mail (which I don’t need for planning purposes) and its portable. I use the calendar (for “mandatory” things and notes) and to-do tasks (with context and tags for easy filtering gtd style) (I also use the Notes for Reference material, passwords, etc).
Each day I do a quick search on EssentialPIM and write items down on a task diary (calendar and will do list, very similar as your system) which I try to acomplish. I like paper when I know I can finish my proposed tasks for the day, but I like also maintaning all the tasks, ideas, etc on a digital form in which I can filter, move, copy, etc.
Regards
Jaume,
Thank you for the link to EssentialPIM, I have not heard of that software before. I like the fact it is portable. I will give it ago and report back on how I found it.
I highly recommend either thinkingrock or D3 (based on tiddlywiki). They are free and very effective – they do require being at a PC, which may not be what you want thought!
Benjamin,
Thank you for tips, another two pieces of software I haven’t come across before, although I have previously tried tiddlywiki. The majority of my work is PC based and now that I have a laptop it is much easier to access electronic lists.
I will give them a go and feedback.