Time (Life) Management, Ta-Da Lists, and GTD

Have you noticed how it’s often the simplest ideas that make the biggest difference?

This one is so simple you may be tempted to ignore it, I nearly did.

If you don’t know, GTD stands for “Getting Things Done”.  GTD is a productivity and life management concept developed by David Allen. Life management and productivity is a bit different than time management.

I got this idea from a blog reader who goes by “Colander”. This isn’t just another tip to get more things done. It’s about getting more of the right things done.

The nuts and bolts of what to do

1. Rather than using lists on paper per the GTD method, set up a truly free account (there’s not even an upgrade option) at Ta-Da Lists.
2. Create your to-do list but do not put all of your next action in it. Put just a handful of critical next steps on that list.
3. Make your Ta-Da List’s to-do list, one of your home page tabs.

Now if you’re one of those people who is resistant to change this all might make you a bit uncomfortable. Get over it! Because once you make this simple change your critical stuff will be hitting you in the face all-day-long.

Every time you open your browser to goof off with a game like Farmville, or visiting forums, or any one of thousands of time sinks, you will be reminded of your critical next actions.

Another plus about the Ta-Da Lists, you can make multiple lists, and the lists can be shared.

I hope you find this idea as useful as I did.

Your turn

Do you have any productivity tips to share?  Leave them in the comments below.

Resources

“Getting Things Done”, by David Allen

Ta-Da Lists