Do It Tomorrow and Other Secrets of Time Management by Mark Forster

Last updated: Sep 23, 2023

Summary of Do It Tomorrow and Other Secrets of Time Management by Mark Forster

Do It Tomorrow and Other Secrets of Time Management by Mark Forster is a comprehensive guide to effective time management strategies. The book offers practical advice and techniques to help individuals improve their productivity and achieve their goals.

Forster introduces the concept of "closed lists," which involves creating a list of tasks to be completed within a specific time frame. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing tasks and focusing on the most important ones first. By using closed lists, individuals can avoid the overwhelming feeling of an endless to-do list and instead focus on completing a set number of tasks each day.

The book also introduces the concept of "strategic incompetence," which involves deliberately avoiding tasks that are not aligned with one's goals or priorities. Forster argues that by being selective about the tasks we choose to engage in, we can free up more time and energy for the tasks that truly matter.

Another key concept discussed in the book is the "Final Version" technique. This technique involves setting a specific time frame for completing a task and working on it until the deadline, without getting caught up in perfectionism or excessive revisions. By focusing on completing tasks rather than striving for perfection, individuals can increase their productivity and accomplish more in less time.

Forster also emphasizes the importance of taking regular breaks and allowing for downtime. He argues that breaks are essential for maintaining focus and preventing burnout. By incorporating regular breaks into one's schedule, individuals can recharge their energy and improve their overall productivity.

The book also addresses common time management challenges, such as procrastination and distractions. Forster provides practical strategies for overcoming these challenges, including breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps and creating a conducive work environment free from distractions.

Overall, Do It Tomorrow and Other Secrets of Time Management offers a comprehensive and practical approach to time management. By implementing the strategies and techniques outlined in the book, individuals can improve their productivity, reduce stress, and achieve their goals more effectively.

1. The Power of Structured Procrastination

In this book, Mark Forster introduces the concept of "structured procrastination," which is the idea that you can use your tendency to procrastinate to your advantage. Instead of fighting against your natural inclination to put things off, you can harness it by creating a structured system that allows you to prioritize tasks and work on them in a way that aligns with your natural tendencies. By acknowledging and accepting your procrastination tendencies, you can create a system that works with them rather than against them.

For example, instead of trying to force yourself to work on a task that you're not motivated to do, you can use that energy to work on a different task that is still productive. This way, you're still making progress and utilizing your time effectively, even if you're not working on the task you initially intended to. This concept can be particularly helpful for individuals who struggle with traditional time management techniques and find themselves constantly battling against their own procrastination tendencies.

2. The Importance of Clearing Your Mind

One of the key takeaways from this book is the importance of clearing your mind in order to improve your productivity and focus. Forster suggests that our minds are like computers, and just like a computer can slow down when it has too many programs running in the background, our minds can become overwhelmed and less efficient when we have too many thoughts and ideas floating around.

To combat this, Forster recommends regularly taking time to clear your mind by writing down all of your thoughts, ideas, and tasks. This process, known as a "mind sweep," allows you to get everything out of your head and onto paper, freeing up mental space and reducing mental clutter. By doing this, you can gain clarity and focus, making it easier to prioritize and tackle your tasks effectively.

3. The Power of Limiting Your To-Do List

In the book, Forster emphasizes the importance of limiting your to-do list to a manageable number of tasks. He argues that having too many items on your to-do list can be overwhelming and counterproductive, as it can lead to a sense of paralysis and indecision.

Instead, Forster suggests focusing on a small number of high-priority tasks each day. By limiting your to-do list to just a few key items, you can increase your focus and productivity, as well as reduce stress and overwhelm. This approach allows you to give your full attention to each task, rather than spreading yourself too thin and feeling like you're not making progress on anything.

4. The Value of Time Boxing

Time boxing is a technique that involves allocating a specific amount of time to work on a task or group of tasks. Forster highlights the benefits of using time boxing as a way to increase productivity and manage your time more effectively.

By setting a specific time limit for each task, you create a sense of urgency and focus, which can help you avoid getting stuck in perfectionism or spending too much time on less important tasks. Time boxing also helps you prioritize your tasks and allocate your time more efficiently, as you're forced to make decisions about how much time to allocate to each task.

5. The Power of Starting Small

Forster emphasizes the importance of starting small when it comes to tackling tasks and projects. He argues that taking small, manageable steps towards a larger goal is more effective and sustainable than trying to tackle everything at once.

By breaking tasks down into smaller, more manageable chunks, you can reduce overwhelm and increase your motivation and momentum. This approach also allows you to make progress on a task even when you have limited time or energy, as you can still complete a small portion of the task.

6. The Benefits of Embracing Imperfection

Forster encourages readers to embrace imperfection and let go of the need for everything to be perfect. He argues that striving for perfection can often lead to procrastination and paralysis, as we become afraid of making mistakes or not meeting our own high standards.

Instead, Forster suggests focusing on progress rather than perfection. By accepting that not everything will be perfect and that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, we can overcome our fear of failure and take action. This mindset shift can lead to increased productivity and a greater willingness to take risks and try new things.

7. The Importance of Prioritizing Rest and Relaxation

In addition to focusing on productivity and time management, Forster emphasizes the importance of prioritizing rest and relaxation. He argues that taking regular breaks and allowing yourself time to recharge is essential for maintaining productivity and avoiding burnout.

Forster suggests incorporating regular breaks into your schedule, as well as setting aside time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. By prioritizing rest and relaxation, you can improve your overall well-being and ensure that you have the energy and motivation to tackle your tasks effectively.

8. The Power of Flexibility and Adaptability

Forster highlights the importance of being flexible and adaptable in your approach to time management. He argues that rigid schedules and strict adherence to plans can often be counterproductive, as they don't allow for unexpected events or changes in priorities.

Instead, Forster suggests adopting a more flexible mindset and being willing to adjust your plans and priorities as needed. This allows you to respond to new information and changing circumstances, ensuring that you're always working on the most important and relevant tasks. By embracing flexibility and adaptability, you can increase your productivity and reduce stress and frustration.