Getting Things Done
by David Allen
Allen's system is the most complete personal organization method ever written down: capture everything, clarify what each item means, organize by context, review weekly, do. It is also the most demanding; many readers adopt the inbox and the weekly review and let the rest go. Even that partial adoption is worth the effort.
Read it if…
you have more commitments than your head can hold and feel the low hum of things falling through cracks.
Skip it if…
your life is simple enough to run on a single list; this is more machinery than you need.
Three things you will actually use
- Capture everything in one trusted place.
- Decide the next physical action for each item.
- Do a real weekly review; it is the engine.
Do this first
Empty every inbox, drawer and mental note into one list this weekend, then sort it.
Our verdict
The definitive system for people with too much on their plate; adopt the parts that fit.
Compare with other Focus books
Slow Productivity
Cal Newport · Focus
A humane corrective to hustle; best for people who have already proven they can work hard.
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The Checklist Manifesto
Atul Gawande · Focus
Beautifully written and quietly persuasive; a book about humility disguised as process.
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Smarter Faster Better
Charles Duhigg · Focus
Smart, uneven and enjoyable; stronger as a reader than as a toolkit.
CLICK TO SEEBrowse all Focus book reviews or get the free Reality Code Cheat Sheet.
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