Doing is fast. Thinking is slow. I feel more productive when I check off one little task on my to-do list, no matter how tiny. Then I feel anxious because I haven't started my bigger project -- the one that really needs "think time" to be successful.
The reality is -- most to-do items ARE tiny! Those of us who love to be busy (or hate to forget details) tack on small tasks like "schedule oil change" along with "develop the concept for the next white paper series" or "brainstorm next-gen product line". These items are not equal -- but with long lists and busy days, they just become part of the same list. Although the"list-driven" life feels busy, it stop us from moving forward.
I've started to track my bigger projects in blocks of time in my calendar -- I need to commit to the effort it takes to build something of substance. When your calendar is viewable, or shared by others, blocking off project time is a necessity -- because others will schedule your time before you can! I have used the same acroynm for project time for years: GSD (aka Get Stuff Done). I once had an admin that thought The GSD Corporation was my most important client, and I never told her otherwise. It preserved my project time without making me feel guilty or indulgent. Come up with your own acronym (looks like I'll have to change mine now!).
No worries. I'll still remember to get my oil changed once in a while.
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