Getting Things Done Flashcards
(61 cards)
What is the core purpose of Getting Things Done?
To create relaxed control and mental clarity by managing tasks through a trusted external system.
What is the “mind like water” state?
A state of calm readiness where you can respond appropriately to any input without stress.
Why is the human mind bad at managing tasks?
The mind is good at having ideas but bad at holding and organizing them — it creates stress when overloaded.
What happens when we store tasks in our mind?
It creates cognitive load, distraction, and anxiety (“open loops”).
What is an “open loop”?
Any commitment or unfinished task that you’ve mentally agreed to do but haven’t yet clarified or tracked externally.
Why is it important to close open loops?
Closing loops reduces stress and allows you to focus fully on the present.
How does GTD help reduce stress?
It provides a structured way to capture, clarify, organize, review, and execute all commitments and ideas.
What is the relationship between control and perspective?
High control (organized system) + high perspective (clear priorities) = maximum effectiveness.
Why do people procrastinate or avoid tasks?
They often lack clarity about the next action or the desired outcome.
What is the benefit of externalizing your tasks?
It frees up mental bandwidth for creativity and focus, instead of constant low-level reminder loops.
What are the Five Steps of GTD workflow mastery?
- Capture 2. Clarify 3. Organize 4. Reflect 5. Engage
What is the goal of the Capture step?
To collect 100% of potential tasks, ideas, and commitments into trusted external buckets.
What tools can you use for Capture?
Physical inbox, notebook, voice recorder, app, email inbox, etc.
What is the goal of the Clarify step?
To decide what each captured item means and what action, if any, is required.
What are the possible outcomes of Clarify?
Trash, Incubate (Someday/Maybe), Reference, Project, or Next Action.
What is a “Next Action”?
The very next visible, physical action that can be taken to move a task forward.
What is a “Project” in GTD?
Any outcome requiring more than one action step to complete.
What is the goal of the Organize step?
To park clarified items in appropriate lists or systems for later review and action.
What are the core lists used in Organize?
Calendar, Next Actions lists, Projects list, Waiting For list, Someday/Maybe list, Reference.
What goes on your Calendar?
Only time-specific actions (appointments), day-specific actions, and day-specific information.
What is the goal of the Reflect step?
To review and update your system regularly so it stays current and trusted.
What is the Weekly Review?
A structured process of reviewing all lists and systems weekly to maintain clarity and control.
What is the goal of the Engage step?
To choose and do actions based on context, time, energy, and priority.
What is the Four-Criteria Model for choosing actions?
Context, Time Available, Energy Available, Priority.