When it comes to getting things done, most people have a duality of opinion, either you focus on one thing or multitask. There are pros and cons to both like focus (higher focus in the single task) and speed (higher speed in multiple tasks -kinda). Interestingly enough, I disagree that these are the only two options; I believe the single most effective method for GTD (getting things done) is to optimize your workflow. I am a musician, so I will draw parallels to both music.
In music, we must learn vocabulary, technique, repertoire, amongst other things. Most musicians practice these things separately and, to their angst, hours pass and they have only accomplished 20% of what they wanted to accomplish. The way I practice and other effective practicers practice is by integrating all of these things into one exercise that accomplishes 100% of what needs to be accomplished (in this case I might practice intertwining vocabulary and technique while practicing the repertoire).
How does this become technical? I will be publishing 6 articles on Optimizing your Workflow and how I would personally recommend optimizing your workflow and how I would execute it myself. Why, though, should you listen to me? Well, I have been running my own company, going to school and taking nearly twice the amount of courses as most people, financially supporting myself, working only some of the time (all work and no play makes Zach a dull boy), and relaxing successfully for years. I know what it takes to optimize your workflow and I have done it.
We all lose our workflow optimization, but how long it takes for us to re-optimize how productive we will be. I hope you are excited for this new series, I know I am.
- Introduction – Optimizing your Workflow
- Part 1 – Optimizing your Workspace
- Part 2 – Optimizing your Computer
- Part 3 – Optimizing your Mind
- Part 4 – Optimizing your Work
- Part 5 – Optimizing your Results
- Part 6 – Optimizing your Future
Featured Image Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/aloha75/4753676243/
