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Of course it’s wonderful and inspiring to read and hear uplifting, energizing stories. That’s often why we read blogs, editorials, inspirational books and the like. But, there are days when you just need something that you can apply that will make a difference getting through the daily-ness of life.
So for those of you feeling the same pain as thousands of others across the nation: “OMG! School’s back in gear and what do I do with all these forms and papers and supply lists and vacation bills and medical bills and not to mention my job….and….and….ugh!” Here’s a real answer.
David Allen is one of the business world’s most respected experts on efficiency. He has been dubbed “The personal productivity guru.” Of course, that may sound like he is talking to a whole bunch of analytical detailed types who don’t really live in a real house or work at a real job. Unlike many consultants, however, he practices what he preaches, and his text, Getting Things Done, is readable, useful and practical. It is by far one of the best books of this genre I have read. And, as a consultant and addicted learner, I have read many.
The best point of the book – if it’s on your mind, your mind isn’t clear. Right of the bat – straight to the heart of the matter. Also in chapter one, Allen provides a quick but important exercise to put his model to the test. In a matter of minutes (literally two) he proves his point that it is easy and possible and best of all…freeing. After all, the subtitle is: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity.
He does utilize a flow chart of productivity in several sections, and I am not a flow-chart gal. So, I just ignored it and a few other parts and still found the whole very satisfying. It’s a short book so I won’t try to summarize any more of what Allen has already done so eloquently. But, I will forward one sneak preview on Filing:
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Must take less than a minute and be easy.
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Use A – Z system with no hanging folders if you can (you read it right – dumping the Pendaflex saved me four drawers space. But, if you can’t do it, he has instructions for that scenario too.)
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Have your own labeler and empty folders at your fingertips.
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Never fight the filing pile demon again.
If you struggle to organize, if you are overwhelmed by medical files and receipts, you are not alone. This book will not take away the sheer time involved in managing a special needs family. It will, however, make it easier and clear your mind. And, that's something.
Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen. (Penguin Books, 2001) Check Boonzee Books under Boonzeekat faves. |
