This is the final post from my e-mail that answers the question: "How to ramp up quickly with GTD and Lotus Notes?"  We've touched on the productivity equation and we've looked at how methodology is the first component of the equation. We also explored the technology or tools that can be used to implement GTD in Lotus Notes.  Last week, I discussed Mobility: how to get things done on the run, and two days ago, I blogged about the value I've found in getting coached and coaching others.

As I wrap up this series, I want to share some of the resources I've used to get connected  to the information and people who help me sharpen my skills.

Here's what I shared in my e-mail about some of my current favorite ways to stay connected to all things GTD:
V. Get Connected
As an eProductivity specialist, I find it valuable to learn from and share what I'm learning with others. Here are some of the activities that I recommend. You may want to explore doing one or more of these:

1. Find, meet and mingle with other productivity-minded people in your organization. Chances are there are several other individuals in your organization who are already familiar with the GTD methodology.

2. Frequent the public GTD forums (mentioned previously)

3. Read blogs, or start one.  Learn by sharing with others, learn from others.  There are so many excellent productivity blogs out here. For Notes & GTD, be sure to bookmark NotesOnProductivity. I will be blogging regularly about the intersection of Notes and Productivity, especially as it relates to GTD. There's also a new GTD blog on the block, GTDTimes. GTDTimes is the only officially sanctioned GTD Blog and even David Allen will post there from time to time. I was invited to be a GTDTimes blogger so you'll see some of my posts there, too. Other productivity blogs I enjoy reading are Matthew Cornell, Michael Dolan, Kelly Forrister, Merlin Mann, and Jason Womack. On the Notes side, Alan Lepofsky frequently writes about using Notes productively. That's enough to get you started. You might also want to consider starting your blog; it's an excellent way to learn and to meet others with similar interests. Perhaps a blog about GTD in your profession. If you decide to do this, send me a link; perhaps I'll blog about it!

4. Consider joining GTD Connect. This is a fee-based program but very valuable. I'm in my second year of membership., I really enjoy the audio interviews, whitepapers, and private forums. You'll find a number of my posts in these forums, too. You can join on a month-to-month basis, so no long-term commitment required. If you are serious about getting productive with GTD, I think it's a worthwhile investment.

So much for a brief e-mail. That was a lot of typing! Having just reread this, I think I'll pull out any reference to your organization and post it on my blog as a future post (or series of posts) to help others. I would be curious to know what you think.

VI. Get Creative

I hope you will read what I've written and explore some of my recommendations to see how they fit your work and learning style. Keep what works and toss the rest. Don't be afraid to experiment to find what works best for you.

I hope you will keep in touch and let me know how you are doing as you implement GTD. Perhaps I'll learn something new from you!


Well, that's the end of this series, for now. What did you think? What tips and resources would you like to share to help a person new to GTD to get started?

Links to related posts in this discussion:
Introduction
I. The eProductivity equation
II. Methodology
III. Technology for Notes & GTD
IV. Mobility
V. Get Coached

Discussion/Comments (2):

Eric Mack (http://www.EricMackOnline.com): 4/24/2008 12:47:30 AM
Five steps to implementing GTD within Lotus Notes

I completely forgot to mention this post from 2004, { Five steps to implementing GTD within Lotus Notes }


Matthew Cornell (http://www.matthewcornell.org/): 4/24/2008 6:04:16 PM
eProductivity Equation: Get Connected & Get Creative

I really like your suggestions for deepening learning, esp. writing to learn - something I've really found makes me think! I also appreciated your series, including your P = MTK equation; sweet. Finally, thanks very much for the link. I'm in fine, fine company here.



Discussion for this entry is now closed.