Tim, a high school administrator in Utah, sent us this letter about his experience with GTD:
Four years ago, I left a job at a University Research Center and took a job as a High School Administrator. I went from a relatively relaxed job, to a high stress, high volume experience. It has been the most challenging and rewarding job I have ever had. However, I have been highly frustrated with my inability to get on top of things. There always seemed to be 100 things to do, enough time to do 10 of them, and none of those well. I really wasn’t getting to anything very important, like the students.
Several weeks ago, I went to visit my brother who had several books he said he wanted to give me. There was a copy of Getting Things Done and a set of CD’s. This was one of those times when I was in the right place at the right time. I was ready for GTD whether I knew it or not. I devoured the book and CD’s . Being at a High School is like laying track under a moving train, so I would listen to the CD’s and podcasts while travelling to extra-curricular events and stay late at my office to begin implementation. Within days I noticed a huge difference in my work flow, my confidence and peace. I felt in control for the first time in a long time. I received so much positive reinforcement from implementation that it made it easy to want to continue.
I just published an article in a school leadership magazine that I wrote a couple of years ago about how good management facilitates effective leadership. I wish I had known at the time about GTD. I would have definitely mentioned it in my article. GTD has helped my clear the hurdle of good management to be a more effective educational leader. Thank you!