[MSC]

I am not a naturally organised person My office and workshop is based at home as well which doesn't help (that's my excuse anyway ) so I thought I should do something about it.
I got two books from Amazon: Getting things done by David Allen and Do It Tomorrow (and other secrets of time management) by Mark Forster. I started reading Do It Tomorrow first because it was shorter and UK based. It is absolutely brilliant, and I've begun applying the principles already with great results (although being here on a forum is deviating from the plan slightly, but at least I am aware of it )!

I didn't really need the second book but I flicked through it one day last week whilst waiting for an appointment. It is much more 'American' and involved and after reading Do It Tomorrow I didn't feel I needed it. It does have a good chapter on getting practical things like files and folders etc, and the main tip I got from the book is when you make a list 'write the next step'. He says 'what's the next action?' So rather than writing on your list 'sort out banking' write the exact next step you need to take, like 'ring the A&L'.

But really I can't praise Do It Tomorrow enough. If you struggle with time management, routines, feel like you have too much work and not enough time etc this is the book for you!

[Maxine]

but I dont have enough time to buy the book or read it

Seriously though - any other tips??

[Inzvestor]

Another great book is 'The Mind Gym - Give Me Time'

Broken down into bite-sized modules it allows you to focus your time management skills allowing you to live a 'fuller' life.

Have a to-do list broken down into hours and make sure you have rewards built in so that you are motivated to achieve your tasks.
You may find you become organised as you work towards the rewards and try to get to them quicker, cutting out inefficient practices without realising it.

[sally]

Can any of these recommended books be bought in pdf format, as I can't get english books over here and I really need help organising my time

[MSC]

Maxine it didn't take me long to read it, and it is soooooo worth it!

Glenn that sounds good

Sally can you order from amazon? Oh I see on your profile-are you in Egypt??

[sally]

Yes and they stop all my books in Cairo, hence wanting a downloadable version as I sooo need that book.

I'm not really in prison honest.

[boxby]

When I worked at Arthur Andersen they said take all second class mail, put it in the bin. No-one ever sends anything of any importance by second class mail. Take your first class mail, don't open it, and put it in a drawer, put aside an hour a week to open it, deal with bills, and anything else which is still relevant (date wise), transfer the rest, to the bin. If someone's sent you a first class letter and it's important, and you've not replied within 3 or 4 days, they will already have called you or emailed. you. if they've not, then it's not important. Bin it.

Check your emails regularly, and always answer your phone. The gist of it is that if someone really wants you urgently, they'll phone you, even if they've sent you a letter or an email. Always answer your phone.

It's a ruthless approach, but in times of desperation - it works!!

[RawRob]

Originally Posted by boxby

When I worked at Arthur Andersen they said take all second class mail, put it in the bin. No-one ever sends anything of any importance by second class mail.

Interesting idea, but don't do it if you accept payment by cheque for your online shop! I'm sure some customers send me their cheques second class...

Rob

[IP2]

Originally Posted by boxby

When I worked at Arthur Andersen they said take all second class mail, put it in the bin. No-one ever sends anything of any importance by second class mail. Take your first class mail, don't open it, and put it in a drawer, put aside an hour a week to open it, deal with bills, and anything else which is still relevant (date wise), transfer the rest, to the bin. If someone's sent you a first class letter and it's important, and you've not replied within 3 or 4 days, they will already have called you or emailed. you. if they've not, then it's not important. Bin it.

Check your emails regularly, and always answer your phone. The gist of it is that if someone really wants you urgently, they'll phone you, even if they've sent you a letter or an email. Always answer your phone.

It's a ruthless approach, but in times of desperation - it works!!

It certainly does!