Getting Things Done – David Allen Book Review

Getting Things Done by David Allen is one of the classics in self-help books.  He has sold millions of copies of his books and has countless success stories. But today, I want to answer the question, “is it still relevant?” And who should read the book?

Getting Things Done by David Allen is the book that I am reviewing today.  He has sold millions of copies of his books and has countless success stories. But today, I want to answer the question, “is it still relevant?” And who should read the book?

GTD approach is a process for managing workload, and millions around the world have benefited from using the GTD process by applying it to their situation.  By changing the way, you think about a task or new email coming into your system, and you can save vast amounts of time.  The Getting Things Done book’s goal is to help you re-think the way you approach situations by providing you with a working tactic for every new thing that enters you’re your day.  So, what exactly is GTD?

What is GTD?

First published in 2001, David Allen released GTD to the world to help reduce work stress and manage to-dos.  The simple goal of Getting Things Done was to provide a process for selecting and handling tasks.  New productivity users can benefit from the unique workflows.

GTD Method centers around a 5-stage process that helps you categorize a new item coming into your system.  The five stages of GTD Methodology are:

  1. Capture – Gather the items and place them in your collection system.
  2. Clarify – Go through the items and determine if they are actionable. If so, decide the next action and place it in a project file.  If not, actionable, then decide whether it is trash or reference.
  3. Organize – Put the item where it belongs
  4. Reflect – Review the items frequently.
  5. Engage – Do it.

The book. has five stages. However, David does provide other themes for workflow, implementation, perspective, and other support tips. GTD applies to 99% of the situations you face.

This open approach to your process applies to almost any situation, and it does not matter what tools you are using or what resources are available.

Why Does GTD Have a HUGE Following?

As a result, GTD appeals to professionals and employees, stay-at-home moms and dads, and students.  The methodology itself provides a wide range of use cases.

Whereas other books focus on tips, GTD focuses on a process.  This practical approach makes it very classical and resembles Tim Ferriss’s “4 Hour Work Week” for actionable advice.

As I said before, the significant advantage of GTD is that you can apply it to everyday life. 

Should I Read Getting Things Done book?

If you are struggling to develop a productivity process, then this book would be excellent.  It can help you determine how to capture tasks, inbox items, and more.    It is excellent at helping you plan and organize your tasks.

Would I recommend Getting Things Done?

Yes, if you have not already developed a system, then this book is for you.  However, if you have a plan in place, there may be some practical steps that you could get out of the book. People adopt GTD by mixing bits and pieces to create a workflow.  Think of it as a steppingstone.

If you are just getting started with a To-do-list or other application without a process, then definitely use the Getting Things Done method.  This book is excellent for those who are beginning their productivity journey and need a bit of structure to use with their productivity tools.

If you need to fine-tune your production process, then read this book.  I am sure you. I will find a few golden nuggets to take with you. The whole goal of any production process is to get—you are using a method that works for you.

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