Do More Better: A Practical Guide to Productivity by Tim Challies

Rating – Add it to your list (for most); probably not worth the time (for people already well organized)

Level – Readable, short, step-by-step approach

Summary – It is really difficult to write a summary that doesn’t just rip off the table of contents. Basically, he explains the system that works for him. This includes a mission statement (he calls this a productivity catechism), then finding things that get in the way of your productivity and finally the tools to tackle the problems.

I want to focus on the tools here, because in the month or so that I’ve read this book, I’ve tried to adopt them all. The first tool is a basic task manager. He recommends Todoist, and I’ve jumped on the bandwagon. It’s very intuitive and I use it multiple times a day. The price of the book may be worth this chapter alone. Second tool is a calendar; he recommends Google, it’s nice enough. I use a calendar for everything at work, but never tried to apply that idea elsewhere.  It’s been most helpful in keeping me aware of when I have time to do things and when I don’t; which, in turn, helps my task management.

The final tool, I still haven’t gotten a hold on. He calls it something to gather your information and recommends Evernote. I really like the web clipper extension, but haven’t found much else that is helpful, yet.

He wraps it up by reminding us that for the system to work, you must live on the system and you must maintain it consistently.

Review – I particularly like the lazy-busy excuse/productivity thieve; it hit close to home. There are many things I’d like to do (though I sometimes put it on God) and I wish I was more productive. After adopting the first two of his recommended tools, I’ve already noticed a difference. It sounds like a cheesy add, but not only am I getting more done, but I have more time. This book could be very helpful to anyone who needs a productivity boost.