I have been reading a few blog posts from those who started on the GTD bandwagon and have fallen off. Especially those who are Mac users. Some have even contracted a bad taste in their mouth for GTD. Why is this? Probably because they are not keeping it simple.
I read how some are using a very elaborate GTD system whether it be paper or electronic. The Mac, especially with the new Leopard OS, there is a lot of eye candy, and I do mean a lot. Moreover, there is a plethora of GTD applications developed for the Mac that takes Leopard’s eye candy to a whole new level. Now, mind you, I am not against using those applications, but that may be the reason why some of those who were once GTD disciples have now backslidden or apostatized.
Is GTD supposed to be hard work? I do not think so. If I understand GTD correctly, the system is supposed to simplify, so that you can be more productive without being bogged down with doing. For those who are abandoning ship, it may be because you are working harder than ever at the system instead of allowing the system to work for you.
Why get carried away with applications that have all the bells and whistles? Simplify your system by using some of the built-in applications like Notes, Stickies, Mail.app, and iCal. Or maybe look into using Sidenotes. If you simplify your system, you may find yourself staying on the GTD bandwagon for the long haul.
Tags: getting things done, GTD, lifehack, lifehacker, mac productivity, Productivity