Have you ever had a goal you wanted to fulfil but never quite got around to achieving it? That’s where the Zen To Done rule could prove useful to you. The Zen To Done rule is a step-by-step productivity technique to help you get tasks done. This guide will cover how the Zen To Done rule works, and how you stand to gain with it.
What is the Zen To Done rule?
The Zen To Done rule is a habit-building technique that’s often used to help boost productivity. It’s a simple, step-by-step solution that makes your goals much more achievable. Ultimately, the Zen To Done technique can be condensed into 4 easy tenets, which you can incorporate into your life today.
#1 Collect
The “collect” aspect of the Zen To Done technique involves collating a list of actionable tasks. Think of it as creating a to-do list. The tenet of the Zen To Done rule encourages you to note down every task you have to do. Having a centralised task sheet is a great habit that will keep you on track, and ensure that you don’t forget to get something done. Whether it’s a journal, to-do app or even just the Notes app on your phone, pick a platform that you’re comfortable using and stick to it.
#2 Process
The second tenet of the Zen To Done rule is “process”. This aspect requires you to process the information you’ve collated with your “collect” habit. The best way to go about this is to set aside a portion of your day to review your task list, and even order the tasks based on priority. Most people, in fact, prefer to do this first thing in the morning. Additionally, you should take this time to clear as many tasks as you can. This often means delegating tasks that you believe could be better accomplished by someone else, or cancelling tasks that are no longer important to you.
#3 Plan
Since you now have a clear, streamlined task list, you may move forward to plan for each task. You may wish to plan the order of tasks to complete, the task completion timelines or any other factors involved. The most effective way to plan your tasks is to incorporate a time management technique into your work schedule. From timeboxing to the “eat that frog” rule, pick a time management technique that you’re comfortable with and use it to stay on track with your to-do list. How should you go about doing that? There’s no better way to stay on track than with a time management tool. A Timeqube, for example, is an unobtrusive time tracker that indicates the passing of time through a gorgeous change in color. It’s a seamless tool that could help you work better and become more productive.
#4 Do
Last, but certainly not least, is the “do” aspect of the Zen To Done rule. This last step involves eliminating distractions and getting your planned tasks done. Work in a distraction-free environment, schedule an appropriate number of breaks and give your work your all.
Start today!
Being productive sounds way more daunting than it actually is. Give the Zen To Done rule a go today and you could see a huge boost in productivity in no time!
