![\"Blogger](\"https:\/\/www.alsc.ala.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/EggDropChallenge1-594x650.jpg\")
I am so glad I made that choice. With the support of my manager and ALSC mentor, I\u2019ve researched and tested a variety of methods for managing projects, minimizing distractions, and becoming more productive. I now use–to varying degrees of loyalty– five different tools and strategies. Here are my top three.<\/p>\n
Strategy 1: <\/strong>One Big Thing <\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n What does it solve?<\/strong><\/p>\n Have you ever tried to do all the things on your to do list at the same time and then accomplished none of it? This helps.<\/p>\n How does it work?<\/strong><\/p>\n Pick one big thing to tackle each day. Then do it.<\/p>\n Did it work? Strategy 2: <\/strong>Tickler file<\/strong><\/a> What does it solve?<\/strong><\/p>\n It organizes those heaps of post-it note reminders and half-formed lists that otherwise litter your workspace.<\/p>\n How does it works?<\/strong><\/p>\n Any paper that ends up on my desk–timesheets, weeding reports, my \u201cOne Big Thing\u201d lists– go into the folder for the date or month it needs to get done. Each morning, I look at that day\u2019s corresponding folder and tackle what\u2019s inside.<\/p>\n Did it work?
\n<\/strong>Yes. Somedays I am more interested in the smaller tasks that pop up throughout the day and get distracted, but usually the guilt of seeing the One Big Thing still waiting to be done is enough to get me back on track.<\/p>\n
\n<\/em><\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>To an extent. This is great for keeping my desk tidy and setting aside non-urgent tasks. It is, however, a paper-centric strategy that doesn\u2019t always play well with tasks assigned through email.
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n