Heuristics for avoiding overload and achieving

For knowledge workers today (using computers of course), there are a million and one interesting things to do. Abounding examples include trying out a new web service, evaluating some cool looking software, reading the news, the analysis and background features, seeking out the latest management initiatives, playing a game, instant messaging …. it is a possibly endless list!

Here are some heuristics that I am trying to use to get myself out of the overload mode into the productive mode.

1. The basics – set objective and tasks and meet their deadlines.
2. Do time-tracking – record after every two hours what you’ve spent your time on. Your calendaring application should be of help.
3. Set a limit on the depth through you click on the Internet. 2-3 is a good choice.
4. Allocate a fixed amount of time to random browsing – ensure that you are also not missing out on discovering great stuff on the web.
5. Learn discipline and continuously review your time expenditure.

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