Building walls

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jvarner

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I have been GTD for almost a year now and it has truly had an amazing impact on my life. I've successfully introduced it to at least two people that seem to have really had success with it, as well. Unfortunately, the president of my company is not one of those individuals. While I do think he would benefit from learning to GTD, however, his problem is slightly different and I'm not sure what the solution is.

He is probably on the phone or meeting with people about 8-12 hours a day, solving problems and the like. Often, he gets sucked into long-winded conversations or interactions that are really just a big waste of time. In a nutshell, I think he is far too generous in giving of his time to people. the problem is that it keeps him from tending to what he needs to be doing. He rarely even has time to get his basic work done, much less think or stretgize about the future. As a result, he is just not having enjoying his life as much as he could.

So, my question is, has anyone seen or heard of anything that can show/instruct him on how to build some walls in his life or otherwise deal with this situation? I would greatly appreciate whatever light you can shed on this.

Thanks
 
Try but not force.

Some people are unchangable even in theirs generosity. But try to give him GTD book (or even better the audio version to listen in the car).

You can also catch him for a long-winded conversation about long-winded conversations. But he is the only person who can change himself.

TesTeq
 
Your boss probably has the kind of personality where tending to relationships is more important tahn completing tasks, such as planning!

I had a client like this once who was absolutely astounded when we did a time inventory and showed him why he was always busy but not always productive. He finally put boundaries in place, built a team to compensate for his strength (weakness!) and his business went through the roof.

Your boss probably won't read GTD (reading is not exactly a relationship thing is it!). I'd recommend having someone have a long conversation with him about productivity, relationships etc. A good coach perhaps as that is less threatening than an employee. get bthem to help the boss see the reality and waste in this situation and the opportunities they are missing.

Good Luck.

PS Would they listen to the GTDF CDs in the car if they're not on the 'phone talking!!
 
Maybe the good example you're setting will make your boss want to know the secret to your productivity.

If he isn't interested, then maybe you'll end up with his job one day? :D

I think it's great that you care. If your boss doesn't feel the need to change, he won't.

Buy him the book, and leave it at that. You can only change yourself, and be a good example for others. :D

Trisha
 
Or maybe you should let your boss continue to be the way he is. If he's not running the corporation in to the ground, it sounds like you're the perfect compliment to him.

There is another way you could implement GTD in his life. Hire an executive assistant who's fluent in GTD, even if it's not the David Allen GTD.
 
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