The GTD Workflow Map
Take control of life's many demands with a powerful workflow.
#Understanding the GTD Workflow Stages
The Getting Things Done (GTD) Workflow from is a powerful method for managing tasks and projects. It comprises five key stages: Capture, Clarify, Organize, Reflect, and Engage. Each stage is crucial in helping individuals achieve their goals and maintain productivity, and it’s a major force to apply to your Actualization Flywheel (see ).
Check out the workflow here.
1. Collect/Capture
The first stage involves collecting all your tasks, ideas, and commitments in a trusted system. This could be a notebook, an app, or any tool that works for you.
Example: Jotting down a new project idea as soon as it comes to mind.
Why it's helpful: Capturing everything frees your mind from the burden of remembering, allowing you to focus on experiencing the present and making meaning in that moment.
2. Process/Clarify
In this stage, you process what you've captured to determine what action is needed and why. This involves deciding if the item is actionable, and if so, what the next steps are.
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Example: Breaking down a project into smaller, actionable tasks.
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Example: Determining what resources are necessary to perform a task.
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Example: Defining the purpose and priciples of your task.
Why it's helpful: Clarifying helps you understand the scope of your commitments and ensures that you are clear on what needs to be done, supporting both productivity and personal growth. Clarity helps you frame your thinking and make better decisions when it’s time to focus.
3. Organize
Once clarified, tasks need to be organized into appropriate categories such as projects, next actions, or reference materials. This helps in keeping everything in its place.
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Example: Using folders or lists to categorize tasks by project or priority.
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Example: Putting the task/project into Life Domain Folders (see ) to orient and offer context to your work.
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Example: Putting the task/project into Mastery Folders (see ).
Why it's helpful: Organizing your tasks ensures that you can easily find and focus on what’s important, aiding in efficient execution and actualization. In the Actualization Flywheel, this is another aspect of framing and focusing, setting yourself up for success when it’s time to do the work.
4. Review/Reflect
Regularly reviewing your tasks and projects is essential to stay on track. This involves daily check-ins and weekly reviews to update your lists and ensure everything is current.
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Example: Setting aside time each week to review and update your task list.
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Example: Setting aside time each month to review and update your related goals or principles.
Why it's helpful: Invitable, there’s a gap in all that what we want to do and when we get around to doing it. Reflecting keeps you aligned with your goals and helps you adjust your actions as needed, fostering continuous improvement and growth.
#5. Do/Engage
The final stage is about taking action. With a clear and organized system, you can confidently engage with your tasks, knowing exactly what needs to be done.
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Example: Completing tasks based on your organized lists.
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Example: Ensuring your calendar has named spaces to get specific tasks done.
Why it's helpful: Effectively engaging with your tasks ensures that you consistently move towards your goals. Doing the work is essential to getting feedback on the experience you have, providing the information you need to improve your sensing, thereby accelerating your Actualization Flywheel.
By following the GTD Workflow, you can create a structured approach to managing your tasks and projects, leading to greater productivity and a more fulfilling actualization experience.