The In-Box

I really love "Getting Things Done," written by productivity guru David Allen. Although I do think he gets a little carried away with some of his suggestions, on the whole, you can take away some great organizing ideas.

What's helped me the most is his use of the in-box. He suggests we should put all our stuff -- mail, ideas written on note cards, appointment reminders, notes to our self to do something -- in the in-box. And for the last year, that's what I've done. It gives me a totally relaxed feeling because I know everything is in that box (actually basket for me). No more piles everywhere.

But here's the catch. You have to go through the in-box on a regular basis. Otherwise, it will do you no good,. The stuff will just sit there, and you'll take no actions. I try to do it once a week; sometimes it's every two weeks. It's a habit you have to make happen. But once you start doing this, you'll feel a lot more relaxed.