by David Allen

Key concepts:

1. Capture: The first step is to capture all your tasks, ideas, and commitments into a trusted system. This can be a physical notebook, a digital tool, or a combination of both. The idea is to gather all your thoughts and commitments in one place to ensure nothing gets overlooked.
2. Clarify: Once you have captured everything, you need to clarify each item. Ask yourself, "What is the next actionable step?" If it takes less than two minutes, do it immediately. If it requires multiple steps or is not actionable, it becomes a project that needs to be broken down into smaller, actionable tasks.
3. Organize: After clarifying your tasks, organize them into appropriate categories and contexts. Use lists such as "Next Actions," "Waiting For," "Someday/Maybe," and "Projects" to categorize and track your tasks effectively. Assign contexts based on the location, resources, or time required to complete each task.
4. Reflect: Regularly review your lists and commitments to ensure they stay current and relevant. Conduct weekly reviews to evaluate your projects, update your task lists, and plan your upcoming week. This helps you maintain a clear and up-to-date overview of your responsibilities.
5. Engage: Finally, engage with your tasks and take action. Work on tasks based on their context and priority. Use the "Next Actions" list as your guide to focus on what needs to be done at any given moment. By consistently taking action on tasks, you make progress towards your goals and maintain a sense of control and accomplishment.