![\"pomodoro](\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/pomodoro-management-techniques.gif\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nPomodoro is famous for being one of the most followed time management techniques. However, the Italian-speaking population knows it as a fruit that\u2019s often mistaken to be a vegetable. Pomodoro is the Italian word for Tomato.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We Say Tomato, Cirillo Says Pomodoro<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nFrancesco Cirillo invented the Pomodoro Technique based on a tomato-shaped kitchen timer he used in university. He would twist it to a specific time limit, and use the ticking as the background score while he focused on getting things done. When the timer hit zero, the ringing would signal a quick recess. A few minutes later, Cirillo would get back to work, winding up the timer once more. Four Pomodoro cycles later, he would take a longer break, lasting 30-40 minutes. And, why not? He\u2019d earned it after all. Maybe he could go get a sandwich. Maybe the sandwich would also come with a Pomodoro.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pavlov Meets Productivity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
More than being a technique, Pomodoro is a discipline. It takes practice, and once the routine sets in, it\u2019s crunch time. Similar to AMRAP (As Many Reps As Possible) in functional training regimes, the goal is to do as much as possible within a specific amount of time. The quick break between each set lights up the reward centres in the brain. This, in turn, serves as motivation to go hard in the next set. Instead of a fight against time, each Pomodoro encourages the practitioner to test their own limits and push beyond. The result is a healthy relationship with work, and a break-up with procrastination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With \u201cNo Distractions\u201d as one of the main tenets, the Pomodoro Technique encourages participants to put any and all distractions away. No phone, no screens (other than the one you\u2019re using, of course), no excuses. Using a digital timer or app to keep time? No can do. You\u2019ll get interrupted by notifications. Get a good old mechanical timer. Total immersion, 25 minutes at a time, that\u2019s the name of the game.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"sdr](\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/sdr-pomodoro-technique.webp\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nThe Flip Side<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\u2022 The Flow State<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
In creative pursuits like writing, the flow state cannot be ignored. When someone gets into the zone, they must chase the idea until they hit a wall. This cannot be timed or contained within a Pomodoro cycle. Productivity and creativity may not always go hand-in-hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Limited Application<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Pomodoro Technique works great for individual contributors. But, when it comes to tasks that involve teams, it could lead to a scheduling nightmare. While the WFH culture still thrives, there are still organizations that cannot operate remotely. You can\u2019t be a team player if you refuse to attend meetings because the tomato timer is still running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Adaptability<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Pomodoro is not a plug-and-play concept. It\u2019s a strict routine that must evolve into a habit before results start showing. According to a study by Dr Phillippa Lally, a senior researcher at University College London, it takes an average of 66 days to form new habits. The possibility of losing steam is high until the 66-day threshold is crossed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 On the Bright Side<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Pomodoro Technique could be useful while shopping online. We all know it takes hours of browsing before we can find what we want, if we really want it. The next time you feel the craving to go on an online shopping spree, twist the tomato. If you don\u2019t find what you\u2019re looking for in 25 minutes, you don\u2019t buy anything. Expense averted! You\u2019re welcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
II. Eisenhower Matrix<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhen Dwight David “Ike” Eisenhower said, “I have two kinds of problems, the urgent and the important. The urgent are not important, and the important are never urgent.\u201d, little did he know it would inspire one of the most popular time management techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prior to becoming the 34th President of the United States of America, Eisenhower served as an army general and commander of the Allied Forces Supreme in World War II. As a result, he was forced to constantly make quick decisions in a limited amount of time. There was no room for error, especially on the battlefield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Four Quadrants of Productivity<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStephen Covey took this ideology and created the time management formula, “The Eisenhower Principle\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stephen Covey is credited as the inventor\/promoter\/formulator of the Eisenhower Principle. If the name sounds familiar, you may probably know him from one of his most famous book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. According to the Eisenhower Method, every job or task can be categorised under 4 types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Eisenhower](\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/eisenhower-matrix-schedule.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Important and Urgent (Do Now) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
This is a double whammy. Some tasks cannot be escaped\u2014things with deadlines, or immediate negative repercussion if ignored. As soon as the clock starts ticking, it\u2019s crunch time. Remember, if you hesitate now, this could trigger a domino effect and leave your schedule in ruins. It\u2019s like choosing the right outfit on a first date; the longer you take, the lesser time you get to actually create an impression. And, nobody likes a late first date. \u201cWhat do we say to the God of Procrastination? Maybe later.\u201d – Unknown Source On the bright side, getting these tasks out of the way first frees up a lot of time. Some of the tasks in this quadrant might even give you an endorphin rush once completed. You can successfully keep the feeling of impending doom at bay, and take a breather before going into the next quadrant of tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2.Important and Not Urgent (Do Later) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The tasks in this quadrant cannot be rushed. \u201cWell begin is half done\u201d doesn\u2019t apply here. \u201cI\u2019ll do it later\u201d might sound like procrastination, yet it\u2019s not always the case. These are hygiene activities with a long-sighted goal. Updating the CRM, looking up cold calling scripts<\/a> and email templates<\/a>, reading newsletters, and so on. These are big picture items which definitely help you stay on top of things, and be the best version of yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Not Important and Urgent (Delegate or Automate)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
This quadrant serves as the glitch in the matrix. It\u2019s often difficult to separate the urgent from the important. In such cases, the question to ask is \u201cCan this be done by someone or something else?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Not important and Not Urgent (Delete) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s completely valid to wonder why this quadrant even exists. Maybe it\u2019s aesthetics, maybe it\u2019s Maybelline. Breaks, breathers, rest, and relaxation fit into this square. A video you paused, the texts piling up on your phone, that celebrity you stalk\u2014you get the drift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chronology by Priority<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nThis matrix is driven by consequence\u2014\u201cWhat happens if this task doesn\u2019t get done?\u201d Constantly asking this question about each task makes it easier to place into each quadrant. Some tasks may require attention immediately, while some others could be done later. There might even be tasks you could get someone else to do. And when the mist clears, you\u2019ll find out there were some things on your list that didn\u2019t have to be done in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Eisenhower Matrix works by identifying different types of tasks, and putting them into those specific boxes to enable a linear workflow. If the tasks aren\u2019t executed according to the quadrant, they will all eventually land in the Urgent and Important square. So, follow the Eisenhower way, and keep chaos at bay!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Flip Side<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\u2022 The Zero Step<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The first step of sorting activities and tasks before getting started is the most time consuming part of the Eisenhower Matrix. If you have many tasks, it can quickly get overwhelming, pushing you to quit before you even begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Delegation Debacle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Eisenhower Matrix does not take into consideration the nature of each task, the difficulty or complexity, or the resources required to execute the task. Despite having room for delegation, the time taken to supervise and follow up to make sure the person responsible sticks with the program isn’t accounted for. This may lead to micro-management, and strained relationships in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 No Breaks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Unlike the Pomodoro Technique, the Eisenhower Matrix does not account for breaks. Instead, it suggests the user must put recreational activities in the Delete section. While “less breaks means more time\u201d may seem logical, it is simply not practical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
III. Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIt’s often considered that stress and productivity go hand-in-hand. But, David Allen preaches the opposite in Getting Things Done, the art of stress-free productivity<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Head Office Paradox<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nDavid Allen believes the problem with productivity is the Head Office. The office in your head, get it? In many interviews, David Allen states, \u201cThe problem these days, is that most people are trying to use their heads as their office. And, your head is a crappy office.\u201d The brain is allergic to clutter. If there are more than 4 things to keep track of, alarms are triggered and the mind goes blank. Clearing the clutter by recording incoming tasks creates space for execution and productivity in the Head Office. Instead of multitasking, the idea is to focus on each task and execute it quickly before moving on to the next one. David Allen likens this method to being jumped in an alley by four attackers. Trying to take all of them at once isn\u2019t going to end well. Instead, focusing on each opponent and striking hard and fast is a better strategy. Don\u2019t worry, you won\u2019t have to pick fights to be productive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GTD in Sales<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAs a salesperson, you have new tasks coming in all day. Emails from prospects, messages from colleagues, tasks from your CRM, and so on. This is when the GTD methodology kicks in, where you must first ask yourself, “Should I execute on the fly, or focus on the actionable items first?”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
All the Items in Your Task List Can Be Categorized Into 3 Broad Types<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n1. Actionable Standalone Tasks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Actionable items require a response. Focusing on each of these items and getting them out the way is the first step to clearing up your schedule. If you can execute within 2 minutes, do it right away. If it\u2019s going to take longer, write it down and come back to it later. This way, you can manage interruptions and avoid getting distracted while in the flow state. More than managing time better, this also leads to creating time to focus on projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Projects<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nThe Flip Side<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\u2022 The Flow State<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
In creative pursuits like writing, the flow state cannot be ignored. When someone gets into the zone, they must chase the idea until they hit a wall. This cannot be timed or contained within a Pomodoro cycle. Productivity and creativity may not always go hand-in-hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Limited Application<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Pomodoro Technique works great for individual contributors. But, when it comes to tasks that involve teams, it could lead to a scheduling nightmare. While the WFH culture still thrives, there are still organizations that cannot operate remotely. You can\u2019t be a team player if you refuse to attend meetings because the tomato timer is still running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Adaptability<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Pomodoro is not a plug-and-play concept. It\u2019s a strict routine that must evolve into a habit before results start showing. According to a study by Dr Phillippa Lally, a senior researcher at University College London, it takes an average of 66 days to form new habits. The possibility of losing steam is high until the 66-day threshold is crossed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 On the Bright Side<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Pomodoro Technique could be useful while shopping online. We all know it takes hours of browsing before we can find what we want, if we really want it. The next time you feel the craving to go on an online shopping spree, twist the tomato. If you don\u2019t find what you\u2019re looking for in 25 minutes, you don\u2019t buy anything. Expense averted! You\u2019re welcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
II. Eisenhower Matrix<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhen Dwight David “Ike” Eisenhower said, “I have two kinds of problems, the urgent and the important. The urgent are not important, and the important are never urgent.\u201d, little did he know it would inspire one of the most popular time management techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prior to becoming the 34th President of the United States of America, Eisenhower served as an army general and commander of the Allied Forces Supreme in World War II. As a result, he was forced to constantly make quick decisions in a limited amount of time. There was no room for error, especially on the battlefield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Four Quadrants of Productivity<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStephen Covey took this ideology and created the time management formula, “The Eisenhower Principle\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stephen Covey is credited as the inventor\/promoter\/formulator of the Eisenhower Principle. If the name sounds familiar, you may probably know him from one of his most famous book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. According to the Eisenhower Method, every job or task can be categorised under 4 types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Important and Urgent (Do Now) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
This is a double whammy. Some tasks cannot be escaped\u2014things with deadlines, or immediate negative repercussion if ignored. As soon as the clock starts ticking, it\u2019s crunch time. Remember, if you hesitate now, this could trigger a domino effect and leave your schedule in ruins. It\u2019s like choosing the right outfit on a first date; the longer you take, the lesser time you get to actually create an impression. And, nobody likes a late first date. \u201cWhat do we say to the God of Procrastination? Maybe later.\u201d – Unknown Source On the bright side, getting these tasks out of the way first frees up a lot of time. Some of the tasks in this quadrant might even give you an endorphin rush once completed. You can successfully keep the feeling of impending doom at bay, and take a breather before going into the next quadrant of tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2.Important and Not Urgent (Do Later) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The tasks in this quadrant cannot be rushed. \u201cWell begin is half done\u201d doesn\u2019t apply here. \u201cI\u2019ll do it later\u201d might sound like procrastination, yet it\u2019s not always the case. These are hygiene activities with a long-sighted goal. Updating the CRM, looking up cold calling scripts<\/a> and email templates<\/a>, reading newsletters, and so on. These are big picture items which definitely help you stay on top of things, and be the best version of yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Not Important and Urgent (Delegate or Automate)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
This quadrant serves as the glitch in the matrix. It\u2019s often difficult to separate the urgent from the important. In such cases, the question to ask is \u201cCan this be done by someone or something else?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Not important and Not Urgent (Delete) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s completely valid to wonder why this quadrant even exists. Maybe it\u2019s aesthetics, maybe it\u2019s Maybelline. Breaks, breathers, rest, and relaxation fit into this square. A video you paused, the texts piling up on your phone, that celebrity you stalk\u2014you get the drift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chronology by Priority<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nThis matrix is driven by consequence\u2014\u201cWhat happens if this task doesn\u2019t get done?\u201d Constantly asking this question about each task makes it easier to place into each quadrant. Some tasks may require attention immediately, while some others could be done later. There might even be tasks you could get someone else to do. And when the mist clears, you\u2019ll find out there were some things on your list that didn\u2019t have to be done in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Eisenhower Matrix works by identifying different types of tasks, and putting them into those specific boxes to enable a linear workflow. If the tasks aren\u2019t executed according to the quadrant, they will all eventually land in the Urgent and Important square. So, follow the Eisenhower way, and keep chaos at bay!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Flip Side<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\u2022 The Zero Step<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The first step of sorting activities and tasks before getting started is the most time consuming part of the Eisenhower Matrix. If you have many tasks, it can quickly get overwhelming, pushing you to quit before you even begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Delegation Debacle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Eisenhower Matrix does not take into consideration the nature of each task, the difficulty or complexity, or the resources required to execute the task. Despite having room for delegation, the time taken to supervise and follow up to make sure the person responsible sticks with the program isn’t accounted for. This may lead to micro-management, and strained relationships in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 No Breaks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Unlike the Pomodoro Technique, the Eisenhower Matrix does not account for breaks. Instead, it suggests the user must put recreational activities in the Delete section. While “less breaks means more time\u201d may seem logical, it is simply not practical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
III. Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIt’s often considered that stress and productivity go hand-in-hand. But, David Allen preaches the opposite in Getting Things Done, the art of stress-free productivity<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Head Office Paradox<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nDavid Allen believes the problem with productivity is the Head Office. The office in your head, get it? In many interviews, David Allen states, \u201cThe problem these days, is that most people are trying to use their heads as their office. And, your head is a crappy office.\u201d The brain is allergic to clutter. If there are more than 4 things to keep track of, alarms are triggered and the mind goes blank. Clearing the clutter by recording incoming tasks creates space for execution and productivity in the Head Office. Instead of multitasking, the idea is to focus on each task and execute it quickly before moving on to the next one. David Allen likens this method to being jumped in an alley by four attackers. Trying to take all of them at once isn\u2019t going to end well. Instead, focusing on each opponent and striking hard and fast is a better strategy. Don\u2019t worry, you won\u2019t have to pick fights to be productive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GTD in Sales<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAs a salesperson, you have new tasks coming in all day. Emails from prospects, messages from colleagues, tasks from your CRM, and so on. This is when the GTD methodology kicks in, where you must first ask yourself, “Should I execute on the fly, or focus on the actionable items first?”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
All the Items in Your Task List Can Be Categorized Into 3 Broad Types<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n1. Actionable Standalone Tasks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Actionable items require a response. Focusing on each of these items and getting them out the way is the first step to clearing up your schedule. If you can execute within 2 minutes, do it right away. If it\u2019s going to take longer, write it down and come back to it later. This way, you can manage interruptions and avoid getting distracted while in the flow state. More than managing time better, this also leads to creating time to focus on projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Projects<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
When Dwight David “Ike” Eisenhower said, “I have two kinds of problems, the urgent and the important. The urgent are not important, and the important are never urgent.\u201d, little did he know it would inspire one of the most popular time management techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prior to becoming the 34th President of the United States of America, Eisenhower served as an army general and commander of the Allied Forces Supreme in World War II. As a result, he was forced to constantly make quick decisions in a limited amount of time. There was no room for error, especially on the battlefield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Four Quadrants of Productivity<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStephen Covey took this ideology and created the time management formula, “The Eisenhower Principle\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stephen Covey is credited as the inventor\/promoter\/formulator of the Eisenhower Principle. If the name sounds familiar, you may probably know him from one of his most famous book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. According to the Eisenhower Method, every job or task can be categorised under 4 types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Important and Urgent (Do Now) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
This is a double whammy. Some tasks cannot be escaped\u2014things with deadlines, or immediate negative repercussion if ignored. As soon as the clock starts ticking, it\u2019s crunch time. Remember, if you hesitate now, this could trigger a domino effect and leave your schedule in ruins. It\u2019s like choosing the right outfit on a first date; the longer you take, the lesser time you get to actually create an impression. And, nobody likes a late first date. \u201cWhat do we say to the God of Procrastination? Maybe later.\u201d – Unknown Source On the bright side, getting these tasks out of the way first frees up a lot of time. Some of the tasks in this quadrant might even give you an endorphin rush once completed. You can successfully keep the feeling of impending doom at bay, and take a breather before going into the next quadrant of tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2.Important and Not Urgent (Do Later) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The tasks in this quadrant cannot be rushed. \u201cWell begin is half done\u201d doesn\u2019t apply here. \u201cI\u2019ll do it later\u201d might sound like procrastination, yet it\u2019s not always the case. These are hygiene activities with a long-sighted goal. Updating the CRM, looking up cold calling scripts<\/a> and email templates<\/a>, reading newsletters, and so on. These are big picture items which definitely help you stay on top of things, and be the best version of yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Not Important and Urgent (Delegate or Automate)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
This quadrant serves as the glitch in the matrix. It\u2019s often difficult to separate the urgent from the important. In such cases, the question to ask is \u201cCan this be done by someone or something else?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Not important and Not Urgent (Delete) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s completely valid to wonder why this quadrant even exists. Maybe it\u2019s aesthetics, maybe it\u2019s Maybelline. Breaks, breathers, rest, and relaxation fit into this square. A video you paused, the texts piling up on your phone, that celebrity you stalk\u2014you get the drift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chronology by Priority<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nThis matrix is driven by consequence\u2014\u201cWhat happens if this task doesn\u2019t get done?\u201d Constantly asking this question about each task makes it easier to place into each quadrant. Some tasks may require attention immediately, while some others could be done later. There might even be tasks you could get someone else to do. And when the mist clears, you\u2019ll find out there were some things on your list that didn\u2019t have to be done in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Eisenhower Matrix works by identifying different types of tasks, and putting them into those specific boxes to enable a linear workflow. If the tasks aren\u2019t executed according to the quadrant, they will all eventually land in the Urgent and Important square. So, follow the Eisenhower way, and keep chaos at bay!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Flip Side<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\u2022 The Zero Step<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The first step of sorting activities and tasks before getting started is the most time consuming part of the Eisenhower Matrix. If you have many tasks, it can quickly get overwhelming, pushing you to quit before you even begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Delegation Debacle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Eisenhower Matrix does not take into consideration the nature of each task, the difficulty or complexity, or the resources required to execute the task. Despite having room for delegation, the time taken to supervise and follow up to make sure the person responsible sticks with the program isn’t accounted for. This may lead to micro-management, and strained relationships in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 No Breaks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Unlike the Pomodoro Technique, the Eisenhower Matrix does not account for breaks. Instead, it suggests the user must put recreational activities in the Delete section. While “less breaks means more time\u201d may seem logical, it is simply not practical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
III. Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIt’s often considered that stress and productivity go hand-in-hand. But, David Allen preaches the opposite in Getting Things Done, the art of stress-free productivity<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Head Office Paradox<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nDavid Allen believes the problem with productivity is the Head Office. The office in your head, get it? In many interviews, David Allen states, \u201cThe problem these days, is that most people are trying to use their heads as their office. And, your head is a crappy office.\u201d The brain is allergic to clutter. If there are more than 4 things to keep track of, alarms are triggered and the mind goes blank. Clearing the clutter by recording incoming tasks creates space for execution and productivity in the Head Office. Instead of multitasking, the idea is to focus on each task and execute it quickly before moving on to the next one. David Allen likens this method to being jumped in an alley by four attackers. Trying to take all of them at once isn\u2019t going to end well. Instead, focusing on each opponent and striking hard and fast is a better strategy. Don\u2019t worry, you won\u2019t have to pick fights to be productive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GTD in Sales<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAs a salesperson, you have new tasks coming in all day. Emails from prospects, messages from colleagues, tasks from your CRM, and so on. This is when the GTD methodology kicks in, where you must first ask yourself, “Should I execute on the fly, or focus on the actionable items first?”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
All the Items in Your Task List Can Be Categorized Into 3 Broad Types<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n1. Actionable Standalone Tasks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Actionable items require a response. Focusing on each of these items and getting them out the way is the first step to clearing up your schedule. If you can execute within 2 minutes, do it right away. If it\u2019s going to take longer, write it down and come back to it later. This way, you can manage interruptions and avoid getting distracted while in the flow state. More than managing time better, this also leads to creating time to focus on projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Projects<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Important and Urgent (Do Now) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
This is a double whammy. Some tasks cannot be escaped\u2014things with deadlines, or immediate negative repercussion if ignored. As soon as the clock starts ticking, it\u2019s crunch time. Remember, if you hesitate now, this could trigger a domino effect and leave your schedule in ruins. It\u2019s like choosing the right outfit on a first date; the longer you take, the lesser time you get to actually create an impression. And, nobody likes a late first date. \u201cWhat do we say to the God of Procrastination? Maybe later.\u201d – Unknown Source On the bright side, getting these tasks out of the way first frees up a lot of time. Some of the tasks in this quadrant might even give you an endorphin rush once completed. You can successfully keep the feeling of impending doom at bay, and take a breather before going into the next quadrant of tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2.Important and Not Urgent (Do Later) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The tasks in this quadrant cannot be rushed. \u201cWell begin is half done\u201d doesn\u2019t apply here. \u201cI\u2019ll do it later\u201d might sound like procrastination, yet it\u2019s not always the case. These are hygiene activities with a long-sighted goal. Updating the CRM, looking up cold calling scripts<\/a> and email templates<\/a>, reading newsletters, and so on. These are big picture items which definitely help you stay on top of things, and be the best version of yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This quadrant serves as the glitch in the matrix. It\u2019s often difficult to separate the urgent from the important. In such cases, the question to ask is \u201cCan this be done by someone or something else?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s completely valid to wonder why this quadrant even exists. Maybe it\u2019s aesthetics, maybe it\u2019s Maybelline. Breaks, breathers, rest, and relaxation fit into this square. A video you paused, the texts piling up on your phone, that celebrity you stalk\u2014you get the drift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This matrix is driven by consequence\u2014\u201cWhat happens if this task doesn\u2019t get done?\u201d Constantly asking this question about each task makes it easier to place into each quadrant. Some tasks may require attention immediately, while some others could be done later. There might even be tasks you could get someone else to do. And when the mist clears, you\u2019ll find out there were some things on your list that didn\u2019t have to be done in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Eisenhower Matrix works by identifying different types of tasks, and putting them into those specific boxes to enable a linear workflow. If the tasks aren\u2019t executed according to the quadrant, they will all eventually land in the Urgent and Important square. So, follow the Eisenhower way, and keep chaos at bay!<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first step of sorting activities and tasks before getting started is the most time consuming part of the Eisenhower Matrix. If you have many tasks, it can quickly get overwhelming, pushing you to quit before you even begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Eisenhower Matrix does not take into consideration the nature of each task, the difficulty or complexity, or the resources required to execute the task. Despite having room for delegation, the time taken to supervise and follow up to make sure the person responsible sticks with the program isn’t accounted for. This may lead to micro-management, and strained relationships in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike the Pomodoro Technique, the Eisenhower Matrix does not account for breaks. Instead, it suggests the user must put recreational activities in the Delete section. While “less breaks means more time\u201d may seem logical, it is simply not practical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s often considered that stress and productivity go hand-in-hand. But, David Allen preaches the opposite in Getting Things Done, the art of stress-free productivity<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n David Allen believes the problem with productivity is the Head Office. The office in your head, get it? In many interviews, David Allen states, \u201cThe problem these days, is that most people are trying to use their heads as their office. And, your head is a crappy office.\u201d The brain is allergic to clutter. If there are more than 4 things to keep track of, alarms are triggered and the mind goes blank. Clearing the clutter by recording incoming tasks creates space for execution and productivity in the Head Office. Instead of multitasking, the idea is to focus on each task and execute it quickly before moving on to the next one. David Allen likens this method to being jumped in an alley by four attackers. Trying to take all of them at once isn\u2019t going to end well. Instead, focusing on each opponent and striking hard and fast is a better strategy. Don\u2019t worry, you won\u2019t have to pick fights to be productive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a salesperson, you have new tasks coming in all day. Emails from prospects, messages from colleagues, tasks from your CRM, and so on. This is when the GTD methodology kicks in, where you must first ask yourself, “Should I execute on the fly, or focus on the actionable items first?”<\/p>\n\n\n\n Actionable items require a response. Focusing on each of these items and getting them out the way is the first step to clearing up your schedule. If you can execute within 2 minutes, do it right away. If it\u2019s going to take longer, write it down and come back to it later. This way, you can manage interruptions and avoid getting distracted while in the flow state. More than managing time better, this also leads to creating time to focus on projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Not Important and Urgent (Delegate or Automate)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
4. Not important and Not Urgent (Delete) <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Chronology by Priority<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Flip Side<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 The Zero Step<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Delegation Debacle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 No Breaks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
III. Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Head Office Paradox<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
GTD in Sales<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
All the Items in Your Task List Can Be Categorized Into 3 Broad Types<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
1. Actionable Standalone Tasks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
2. Projects<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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