This tip was originally published in The Simplifier #31.

In a nutshell: Check out Getting Things Done.

Outside the nutshell: To complement the article, I wanted a practical, easy-to-use tip that would directly facilitate simplifying. The one I thought of was identifying the next action for any projects or ToDos that are floating around your head or workspace unfinished. However, just identifying the next action isn’t as powerful as sandwiching it in a comprehensive system.

Enter the “Getting Things Done” workflow management system (simply laid out in a book of the same name). Developed by the primary advocate of Next Actions, David Allen, this system aims to be an air-tight capture system of your responsibilities. The general premise is to free your mind of tracking unfinished business so you can better enjoy your life and get things done.

The system is easy to use. I’ve found it does provide relief to my over-active mind that would otherwise wonder what happened with this, that, or the other piece of information. Interestingly, it has achieved something akin to a cult-like following, including major online support forums and numerous blogs unconnected with Allen’s site.

The only grain of salt I’ll sprinkle on the Getting Things Done system is the awareness that it’s a workflow management system, not a motivational system. Nor does it assist you in incorporating your values into your workflow. This means that you continue to take responsibility for ensuring your work reflects what you want to be doing.

For more info, check out this CNN article on David Allen.