Getting Things Done by David Allen

This book was phenomenal. In a market that is well-saturated with self-improvement books, magazines, websites and personal coaches, Getting Things Done seems to distinguish itself. Author David Allen discusses methods and the logic behind the methods that allow an individual to “de-stuff” both personal and work lives.

His premise is built on the fact that our memory is like computer RAM. It can only handle so many thoughts and topics at once. If we are filling this space up with thoughts of what to get at the grocery store, projects at work and weekend schedules, we are not at our intellectual peak and cannot be truly creative or stress-free.

Many people claim to use systems such as ABC prioritization, calendars, to-do lists etc. Often times these systems are imperfect and require a serious life change and large time allotments to truly have an impact. The system introduced by David Allen begins with the simple step of writing thoughts down, getting them out of your head and freeing up that mental capacity for more complex or original ideas. Once written down it goes into a trusted system of project lists, next actions, calendars etc in a systematic and formulaic manner that is extremely intuitive.

The processes outlined and discussed by David Allen will work for individuals to corporations and accommodate every situation imaginable. I am going to listen to the book again in a few months as suggested by the author to further implement his system. I highly recommend this book or audio book to everyone. It will reduce the clutter and “stuff” in your life, reduce stress and have an overall positive impact whether you follow all of his suggestions religiously or only implement some points.