Hey everyone, I have a fairly dumb question to ask. I can't believe I'm stuck on it.
I try to process my inbox at the end of each day. This is how it goes for me:
INBOX
Item 1
Item 2
Item 3
Item 4
Item 1 is a two minute action so I do it right away. Item 2 is something I can delegate, so I track it on appropriate context list. Item 3 is a project. This is where I get stuck.
So, at this point, should I put a halt to processing my inbox? Really clarify the ins and outs of this project, figure out the very first next action, and if needed, go through the natural planning model? Or do I simply decide on the desired outcome, slot the project into the "Projects" list, and then handle the project planning down the line when I'm reviewing my list of projects?
I feel like clarifying the project breaks up my flow when processing the inbox. On the other hand, if I don't do it right away I run the risk of having a project that is not fully flashed out and does not have any next actions to do.
What is your experience with this? How do you process your inbox and what is your best practice? Go fully through the inbox or stop at each item (some of which maybe quite large projects) and then return to the inbox?
I hope I explained the problem clearly. Looking forward to any input!
I try to process my inbox at the end of each day. This is how it goes for me:
INBOX
Item 1
Item 2
Item 3
Item 4
Item 1 is a two minute action so I do it right away. Item 2 is something I can delegate, so I track it on appropriate context list. Item 3 is a project. This is where I get stuck.
So, at this point, should I put a halt to processing my inbox? Really clarify the ins and outs of this project, figure out the very first next action, and if needed, go through the natural planning model? Or do I simply decide on the desired outcome, slot the project into the "Projects" list, and then handle the project planning down the line when I'm reviewing my list of projects?
I feel like clarifying the project breaks up my flow when processing the inbox. On the other hand, if I don't do it right away I run the risk of having a project that is not fully flashed out and does not have any next actions to do.
What is your experience with this? How do you process your inbox and what is your best practice? Go fully through the inbox or stop at each item (some of which maybe quite large projects) and then return to the inbox?
I hope I explained the problem clearly. Looking forward to any input!