Ep. 76: Habit Tune-Up: Email On Speed (Taming WhatsApp)

Archiving Tasks

Archiving tasks can be a double-edged sword, offering both benefits and potential pitfalls. Cal Newport suggests that while archiving completed tasks isn't part of his routine, it might be essential in certain professional contexts where keeping a record of completed tasks is necessary 1. He advises focusing on reducing friction in the archiving process, recommending simple tools like Google Docs or Workflowy for efficient task documentation 2.

I like the flexibility of using something like Workflowy or Google Doc, because if there's a few notes that are relevant, you can add your own annotation as you see appropriate.

--- Cal Newport

Ultimately, Newport emphasizes that archiving should not become a source of procrastination, but rather a quick addition to one's daily routine if deemed necessary 2.

   

Strategic Planning

Strategic planning is a dynamic process that guides task and project priorities. Cal Newport explains that a strategic plan should cover a quarter and include "big rock initiatives"—important but not urgent efforts that align with career goals 3. These plans should be updated as necessary, reflecting changes in goals or processes, but should not include short-term tasks or experiments 3.

There should be some relatively high bar to pass for a process or system or habit before it makes its way into your strategic plan.

--- Cal Newport

Newport also highlights the importance of distinguishing between strategic plans and task systems, ensuring that only significant projects and processes are included in the former 4.