It’s your system, not the tools, that matter.

The best productivity tip I have ever been given was given to me by David Allen himself.

(If you want to know the story of how I was in a position to get a personalised tip from the great man himself, allow yourself a few minutes to watch the video )

The tip was “focus on your system and not the tools”.

In other words, once you have your system’s foundations in place (Collect, Organise and Do), you build a solid collection system. One that allows you to quickly collect a task, idea or event into your system. Then, look at how you can organise your stuff so you know where everything is and that everything is linked to the final part of your system: the doing.

When you look at things this way, the tools (the apps you use) become secondary. A carpenter does not waste time searching Google for newer and better hammers or chisels. Hammers and chisels do specific jobs, and while quality may differ between brands, it’s how they are used by the craftsperson that matters. New tools will not make a carpenter a better carpenter.

Interesting point. Have you ever seen a carpenter use a digital measuring tool? No, I didn’t think so. They use their trusty old tape measure. Why? Because it works and doesn’t break.

That’s the same for you. New apps will not make you more productive or better at managing your time. Initially, it will do the reverse because the learning curve and transition time required are greater than any benefits you might gain.

If you feel overwhelmed and exhausted and cannot see a way through, you will not find the solution in a new app. The answer lies within your system. Maybe you could sacrifice Saturday morning to go through everything you think you need to do and decide what you can let go of. Then, determine what you will focus on next week and move everything else off until the following week.

Doing this just once will calm your lists. It will help you establish control over your time, and once done; it will allow you to have a joyous weekend free from the anxiety of what you may or may not have to do next week.

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