What's Wrong With The Weekly Review?

Dave Edwards

January 31

The Weekly Review is core to the GTD/ Getting Things Done methodology, yet some people complain that it's difficult to do. Let me tell you about my problem with it.

Key Takeaways:

Importance of the Weekly Review in GTD:
- The Weekly Review is a crucial aspect of the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology.
- It aims to streamline productivity and enhance personal organization.
Challenges with the Weekly Review:
- Some individuals find it challenging to incorporate the Weekly Review into their routine.
Shifting Emphasis for Better Engagement:
- Shifting the focus from a retrospective review to a forward-thinking planning session can make the Weekly Review more palatable.
The Weekly Planning Session Defined:
- Refers to a proactive approach for planning the upcoming week.
- Involves setting clear objectives, allocating time to tasks, and gaining a comprehensive understanding of workload.
Preventing Overcommitment and Missed Deadlines:
- A well-executed planning session prevents overcommitment and rushed deadlines.
- Provides a clear view of current responsibilities.
Benefits of Completing a Weekly Planning Session:
- Recognizes completed action items, fostering a sense of accomplishment.
- Adjusts priorities to ensure important tasks are not overshadowed.
- Contributes to a focused and productive work environment.
Extended Benefits Beyond Professional Life:
- Offers a sense of control that extends into personal life.
- Fosters a healthy work-life balance.
Maximizing Effectiveness through Consistency:
- Establish a consistent routine for the weekly planning session.
- Choose a specific date, time, and place for the review.
- Consistency aids in building a habit and ensures the review becomes an integral part of the weekly routine.
Choosing the Right Time for the Weekly Planning Session:
- Friday afternoon allows reflection on the past week's achievements and shortcomings, providing a smooth transition to the weekend.
- Sunday evening is a good time to prepare for the upcoming week, alleviating anxiety about impending tasks.
- Monday morning offers a fresh beginning to the week with a mental distance from the previous week, providing motivation for a productive workweek.
Flexibility in Timing:
- The specific day and time of the Weekly Review are less important than establishing it as a regular, non-negotiable part of the weekly schedule.
Viewing the Weekly Planning Session as Essential for Success:
- When seen as an essential part of GTD, the Weekly Planning Session becomes a powerful tool for personal and professional success.