A Fresh Look At The Weekly Review
Discover a fresh perspective on the Weekly Review — a pivotal practice within the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology. We consider how the Weekly Review is not just a checklist but a strategic and reflective journey.
MAIN POINTS
Introduction to Weekly Review (GTD Style):
The weekly review is a fundamental practice in the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology by David Allen.
Its primary purpose is to maintain a clear and organized system, preventing anything from being overlooked and reducing mental clutter.
Purpose of the Weekly Review:
Engage in a systematic process to collect, process, and organize inputs, including loose papers, notes, and items collected during the week.
Process items to ensure each is assigned a proper place or action.
Review calendar to check the previous week’s tasks and prepare for upcoming commitments.
Check the project list for progress and ensure each project has an active action item.
Review next actions list to confirm appropriate contexts and check off completed actions.
Track delegated actions through a “waiting for” list.
Review the “someday maybe” list to activate relevant actions and remove irrelevant ones.
Distinction Between Maintaining, Reflecting, and Executing:
Maintaining involves cleaning up and ensuring everything is in order.
Reflecting involves evaluating whether you are working on the right priorities.
Executing is about taking action on what needs to be done.
Strategic Layer of Reflection:
Beyond tactical aspects, the weekly review includes reflecting on how time was spent the previous week and anticipating distractions for the coming week.
Reflect on the value and risk of every task, aligning efforts with goals.
Tips for an Effective Weekly Review:
Understand the benefits of a weekly review to stay motivated.
Set clear goals for the weekly review.
Establish a ritual or routine for consistency.
Visualize the positive outcomes of a successful review.
Start small if the comprehensive review feels overwhelming.
Implement a reward system for completing the review.
Connect the weekly review to broader personal and professional goals.
Use appropriate tools and apps to streamline the process.
Make the weekly review enjoyable with music, a comfortable workspace, etc.
Consider having an accountability partner for discussion and encouragement.
Importance of Consistency:
Consistency is emphasized for building the habit of a weekly review.
Over time, the benefits become apparent, making the process more natural and even inspiring.
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