A Trifle Absurd

GTD on the Go

Last time I hinted at a hybrid paper/computer GTD scheme. Here’s the on-the-go version:

I keep my inbox and next actions on paper, specifically a long narrow piece of Rhodia 7.4×21cm graph paper. My next actions cover one side, and there’s plenty of inbox room on the other side. Add a Zebra F-301 Compact pen, and I have a simple, pocketable solution.

Ah, but what about other information I might need to take with me, such as a calendar? That’s what the iPod is for. An iPod nano can sync my calendar and whatever other notes I need, then slip into my pocket alongside pen and paper. Sure, it’s read-only, but I can easily note down changes (like new calendar appointments) and put them in when I’m back at the computer.

I keep several lists on the iPod, such as bus times, (used) books to buy, and library books. The library list is actually two lists: books I have checked out, and books I have on hold. At a glance I can see what books I need to return or pick up. The best part is that I can generate these lists automatically, thanks to the Seattle Public Library’s RSS feeds. (That was the minor XML-munging I referred to in my Ruby post.)

Okay, that covers everything but the stuff still on the computer. Next time…