I wrote yesterday about how much discipline it takes to do all elements of the Getting Things Done system. In my gut, I feel that there is no way around this: to get the results, you have to invest the time in planning, executing, and revising plans. There are no short cuts. And still this may be the best system out there. But why is it complex?
I read something today from David Allen's website that answers the question well:
There's an interesting phenomenon which was explained to me once as a key cybernetic principle: in order to create simplicity amidst complexity, your system must be equally complex.
It's not the fault of "Getting Things Done". The complexity of the time management system comes from the complexity of modern life: the constant changes in demands, the multiple responsibilities we each have, the overwhelming number of commitments. The system to manage these commitments has to match the complexity of the commitments. The "To Do Lists" are long and detailed and almost overwhelming because the commitments we make are long and detailed and overwhelming. If you don't like this complexity, shed some commitments! Go after the simple life! Not a bad idea, really. But if you're going to be a parent and a professional with a demanding career, the commitments are going to be complex. Any system you use that isn't equally complex just doesn't rise up to the challenge.
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