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Personal Productivity: GTD + Agile and Priorities

Currently, I practice GTD using Omnifocus [pdf link] as the execution tool. I believe this system to be the best out of all the systems I’ve tried thus far, yet I still struggle with prioritization. After completing a few weeks of agile training with our awesome Rally coach Ann, I began to think of how I can apply agile principles, particularly the prioritization methods, to help solve the priority issue.

The first major difference that struck me is the prioritized backlog that is central to agile vs. the list of next actions split by context that is key to GTD. In trying to follow the non-prioritization ethos of GTD, I always have this feeling in the back of my mind that perhaps I’m working on the wrong thing at a given time. My work around has been using due dates and flags within Omnifocus. Specifically, due dates are for items that have some consequence if I fail to deliver on that date and flags are action items I’d like to complete that day.

Here are some initial thoughts of how to apply concepts from both GTD and Agile within the framework of the GTD weekly review in order to achieve some level of prioritization.

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What is in your GTD Weekly Review Checklist?

I’m in the process of evaluating my GTD weekly review process, as I feel like I’ve entered into the trap of executing the checklist without concern whether I am doing so productively. Following is the current checklist I am using:

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Keeping Your 2010 Resolutions, Web 2.0 Style

It’s time to sweep 2009 under the rug and celebrate 2010 the only way us geeks can … Web 2.0 style! Most of us use the new year as a time to reflect and make resolutions for the coming year. Unfortunately, after a few months, we forget all about those resolutions and go back to our old habits. The number one cause for this is the lack of accountability. While self-accountability plays a key role, having the support of others, is often just the motivation you need to follow through.

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Of course, you could use the old fashion method of simply telling your friends and family your resolutions, but then you probably wouldn’t be reading MakeUseOf.com if you participated in such old school methodologies. I’m kidding of course, but if you are reading this, you are interested in how to help make your resolutions a reality using free web 2.0 tools.

Following are two free social networks that can help you create, share and follow through with all of your 2010 new years resolutions and beyond.

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10 Ideas for More Powerful Negotiations

I often tell entrepreneurs that the ability to sell is the most important skill you can learn. Be it in relationships, trying to get a job, seeking funding or selling a product, the skill of selling is key. Very close to this skill is the art of negotiation. Most times you will not sell your idea, product or service right away, instead there will be a period of back and forth negotiation. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the journey of life that I think will help you become a more powerful negotiator.

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Mobile Productivity with the iPhone or Touch

There are many moments where computing is available in the palm of your hand, but using a NetBook is not. For example: waiting in line anywhere, executing tedious chores or performing any type of repetitive task. In these cases, you can maintain your quest for ultimate productivity with your trusty iPhone or iPod Touch. Following are some ideas you may find useful during those times when the only computing device you can use, fits in the palm of your hand.

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Rules, Method and Framework

Before continuing with The System, I find it necessary to take a step back and define the overarching Rules, Methods and Framework.

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The System

After acquiring a MacBook Pro, and basking in its glow, I became motivated to re-evaluate my overall system for managing my life. I began to conceptulize an all encompassing master system some time ago under the massively creative name Life 2.0. I invite you to take a journey with me towards … drum roll please … Life 3.0! I will start first with a very high level overview of what elements the system must contain for maximum effectiveness.

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Moving from iGoogle to Start.io for my Internet Dashboard

In a time of information overload, less is more is an appealing mantra. So when I heard about start.io on net@night, my interest was immediately piqued. It took me about 10 minutes to setup my dashboard. So far, I find it to be a fantastic, minimalist dashboard.

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Exercising Without Weights – Staying Fit on the Run for the Traveling Entrepreneur

It’s hard enough to keep fit at home, but when traveling the challenges could be a bit tougher. Especially, if you have much work to do and no time to travel to a local gym. Use these resources to keep fit right in your room with no special equipment.

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70 Interviews to Help You Build an Outstanding Internet Company

Andrew Warner of Mixergy.com has put together some incredible interviews with some amazing people with purpose of helping entreprenuers create better Internet companies. Amazingly, all of the interviews are free!

There was one issue I encountered that minimized my joy a tiny fraction at finding this treasure trove; 1) not enough time to listen to them all right now! and 2) no one place to go for an easy short list of all of the interviews (this is undoubtedly because Andrew is busy creating awesome interviews!)

In this post, I have created a list of all the interviews in a easy to browse format that takes you directly to the interview page for your convenience. On that interview page, Andrew has an introductory video, written summary of the interview, streaming audio and download link. Enjoy! I sure am.

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