There have been some interesting discussions on Web Worker Daily recently on GTD.
This week, I started implementing my own policy, at home and at work, to tackle the frequent email crises that I have. It still needs a little work, but so far I have found it an absolute joy to have an empty inbox by 9.30am. I’ve also been able to start reducing the size of my task list (and that is akin to sorting out stuff in the loft).
My policy focuses on emails and tasks, as my work is largely dictated by email. It consists of processing my inbox twice a day, first thing in the morning, and again during the last hour of the day. I do any tasks that take 10 minutes or less immediately, and create tasks for any that will take longer or can’t be done immediately.
During the rest of the day, I work on tasks. (I’m looking at some system of categorizing and prioritizing my tasks at the moment).
I haven’t fully implemented the 5-sentence email policy, but I use it as a rule of thumb. I’ve found that other busy people appreciate this, and I’m not aware of anyone having taken offence at my brief emails yet. (Though I am careful about that).
The proof of the pudding, for my spare-time management system (similar to my work one) will be a higher post-per-month ratio on Tall Tales. We’ll see.
