Productivity workbook
How to use a productivity workbook for a weekly reset
A productivity workbook earns its place when you open it every week. The routine below takes the same shape each time, which is what makes it stick.
1. Empty your head
Write every open task, worry and promise on one page. Don't sort yet. Getting it out of your head is the point.
2. Pick three outcomes for the week
From that list, choose three results that would make the week a success. Outcomes, not activities: "proposal sent", not "work on proposal".
3. Give each outcome a time
Put a block on your calendar for each outcome before the week fills up. If it doesn't fit, it isn't one of your three.
4. Decide what you won't do
Write down what you're deliberately leaving for later. A short not-this-week list keeps the three outcomes protected.
5. Review on Friday
Note what got done, what slipped and why. Carry forward only what still matters. This review is where next week's page starts.
Common mistakes
- Choosing ten priorities, which means none.
- Planning the week without looking at the calendar.
- Skipping the review, so the same problems repeat.