How a GTD List can help you improve your productivity
By: Priyanshu Vij
Tags: Daily Habits, Gtd Getting Things Done, Lifestyle, Time Management, Productivity

Introduction:

What is a GTD List?

GTD List stands for Getting Things Done. It is used to increase productivity. This is used for organizing our daily tasks so that they can be completed on time without forgetting them.

It is gaining popularity today. The term was developed by David Allen in the book Getting Things Done.

For some, productivity means to do more than what they can do. For some, it is synonymous with efficiency. For some, it is smart work.

Why do you need one?

Why do we need one, huh?

Before jumping straight to the why we need to know the benefits of using GTD List.

The various benefits are as follows:

1. Stress Reduction: Whether it is a professional commitment or personal, the GTD list is quite beneficial. The principles involved are capture, clarify, and review. Once done, you’ll be free from the stress that comes in your way. This is due to the fact that it organizes our daily chores in a perfect manner.

2. Time: Forget about not having enough time. Once you get organized, you’ll see that you’ll have more than enough time. You can then enjoy that time with family, friends, yourself, pets, etc.

3. Focus: Focus is one of the key benefits that you’ll have while using this list.

4. Better relationships: As was mentioned earlier that having more than enough time means better relationships with everyone. You’ll not be able to forget anything like anniversaries, etc.

5. Creativity: Better organization means being better at creativity. You’ll be amazed when you’ll see the magic of a better organization. It is subjective, btw.

6. Productivity: Of course, productivity is what most people seek from the GTD List. It is an obvious fact and a benefit too.

GTD List and its importance

Debunking some myths:

Some myths that we are surrounded by when it comes to the GTD List are:

1. It is all about planning: The answer is YES and NO. It is about planning, but not every mundane task is to be counted. The list is intended to make people free and not add burden.

2. You’ll never forget anything again: This is such a false premise that people carry when it comes to the GTD List. It is something that requires enough practice and time. It will not happen overnight.

3. GTD List is only for work-obsessed people: Wow! This myth is such a myth! The truth is that everyone needs this list. Everyone means YOU, I, and EVERYONE.

4. GTD list is sufficient, there's nothing more to it: This list is flexible, and is customizable. You can add or delete the things as and when you want.

Some FAQs:

1. What the heck is a GTD List now?

The definition has been discussed earlier. Please refer above.

2. Why do I need it?

Again, the answer is discussed above.

3. Is it sufficient?

Yes! It is sufficient. But it does not mean that you go on with one and do nothing. You have to constantly review and customize it according to the needs.

4. I’m already a productive person, do I need one?

Yes! You’ll need it. It will add immeasurably to the productivity that you already have.

Resources:

The links are as follows:

Bonus: Famous people who use GTD List:

Oprah Winfrey

David Allen

Will Smith

Tom Cruise