While the first framework, Focus, is a strategic look at our life, this second approach is a tactical look at how we deal with the things coming at us throughout the day. Â
In the first phase, we will capture everything as it comes to us, into tools that we trust (hint: the worst capture tool is our memory).
Having captured it, we need to clarify its meaning – processing it and determining the next action.
If we can’t action it immediately, we will then want to organise the results into a system that reminds us of what we need to do, when we need to do them.
The fourth phase is the critical success factor, building time in our schedule to review and reflect on all of the things we’ve not yet being able to do.
And in the final stage, we need to engage with and trust our systems as we choose what to do in any given moment.
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Pro Tip
Each of the 5 phases have best practices and when we understand, implement and continually refine them, It helps us feel on top of our busy world.
Of course, it's possible to carry out multiple stages at the same time. On a relaxed morning, we could capture, clarify and organise all at the same time. However, at other times, when everything is hectic, even if we only capture effectively, that will work, as long as we come carry out the later phases at some point soon.
Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance, order, rhythm and harmony.
Thomas Merton Tweet