*8 Tips For Getting Things Done<http://dennisharting.blogspot.com/2008/08/8-tips-for-getting-things-done.html> * http://dennisharting.blogspot.com/2008/08/8-tips-for-getting-things-done.html 1)*Plan out your approach to the task*: No point in trying to tackle any project without knowing what you need and what you need to do. Take the extra few minutes to make sure you know exactly what the goal is and how to accomplish it. 2)*Make a list*: Sometimes having an outline or a list can help you visualize everything you need to do to get from the beginning to the end of a project with as few mistakes as possible. Having something written down allows you to check off each step as you complete it and gives you a reference point should you be interrupted while you are working. Each check can also give you a way to see your progression so you don''t feel like you are spinning your proverbial wheels. 3)*Gather all your tools before you begin*: There is very little that wastes more time than having to get up in the middle of a project to go find something you forgot to bring with you in the first place. As part of your list, create a secondary list of all the tools or supplies you will need to complete whatever task you are working on. Make sure those tools and supplies are enough to finish the job. Nothing like being "in the zone" and having to go out to get more of something because you didn''t check to see if you had enough. 4)*Clear your area of all unnecessary clutter*: If you don''t need it to do the job, get rid of it. Move it to another room. Put it away. The less you have to distract you the more efficient and focused you become. Chances are you will also finish the project in less time because you have eliminated the urge to stop and take care of something that has nothing to do with what you are working on. 5)*Eat something*: Starting any project on an empty stomach only ensures that you will have to stop shortly after you eat. It also increases the chance that you will have less concentration and brain power. It doesn''t have to be a huge meal, in fact that would probably slow you down. Have a sandwich or a salad, just something light that will keep your stomach from distract you from working. 6)*Turn off your phone*: Somewhere out there, there is a rule that says as soon as you are deep into whatever you are doing someone will call. Turning off the phone will limit the unplanned interruptions. 7)*Limit your distractions*: If you live alone this will be a bit easier since most of your distractions will be self created. For those who live with someone, let the others know that you will busy and you need uninterrupted time to complete the task. Make sure the dog has fed and has been out. Some people have gone as far as to put a "Do Not Disturb" Sign on the front door. 8)*Get to work*: Once you have done all of the above, just get to work. The sooner you get started, the sooner you finish. There satisfaction you will feel in having completed the task should motivate you to move on to the next task and the one after that. --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Ruby on Rails: Core" group. To post to this group, send email to rubyonrails-core@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rubyonrails-core+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rubyonrails-core?hl=en -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---