Doing the Right Things Right by Laura Stack

Last updated: Aug 18, 2023

Summary of Doing the Right Things Right by Laura Stack

Doing the Right Things Right by Laura Stack is a comprehensive guide to increasing productivity and achieving success in both personal and professional life. The book provides practical strategies and techniques for managing time, setting priorities, and staying focused on the most important tasks.

The author emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with goals and values, and offers a step-by-step approach to help readers identify their priorities and create a plan for achieving them. Stack introduces the concept of the "Productivity Workflow Formula," which consists of three key elements: clarity, focus, and discipline.

Clarity involves understanding one's goals, values, and priorities. Stack encourages readers to define their purpose and create a clear vision for what they want to achieve. She also emphasizes the importance of setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals.

Focus is about eliminating distractions and staying on track. Stack provides practical tips for managing email, meetings, and interruptions, and suggests techniques for improving concentration and avoiding multitasking. She also emphasizes the importance of delegation and collaboration to maximize productivity.

Discipline is the third element of the Productivity Workflow Formula. Stack emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and self-management in order to stay organized and maintain productivity. She provides strategies for managing time effectively, including prioritizing tasks, creating schedules, and overcoming procrastination.

In addition to the Productivity Workflow Formula, Stack introduces several other concepts and techniques throughout the book. She discusses the importance of creating a productive work environment, managing energy levels, and maintaining work-life balance. She also provides tips for effective communication, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Throughout the book, Stack provides real-life examples, case studies, and practical exercises to help readers apply the concepts and techniques to their own lives. She also includes a variety of resources, such as checklists, templates, and recommended tools, to support readers in their productivity journey.

Overall, Doing the Right Things Right is a comprehensive and practical guide to increasing productivity and achieving success. Whether you are a business professional, an entrepreneur, or simply looking to improve your personal effectiveness, this book offers valuable insights and strategies to help you do the right things right.

1. The Power of Prioritization

In "Doing the Right Things Right," Laura Stack emphasizes the importance of prioritization in achieving productivity and success. She explains that prioritization is not just about making a to-do list, but rather about identifying and focusing on the most important tasks that align with your goals and values. Stack provides practical strategies for prioritizing tasks, such as using the "ABC" method to categorize tasks based on their importance and urgency.

By prioritizing effectively, individuals can ensure that they are spending their time and energy on tasks that truly matter, rather than getting caught up in busywork or low-value activities. This insight from the book is actionable because it provides a clear framework for prioritization and offers practical tips for implementing it in daily life. By applying these strategies, individuals can increase their productivity and achieve better results in both their personal and professional lives.

2. The Importance of Focus

Another key takeaway from "Doing the Right Things Right" is the significance of focus in achieving optimal performance. Stack explains that multitasking is a myth and that trying to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously actually decreases productivity and quality of work. She advocates for the practice of single-tasking, which involves giving full attention to one task at a time.

By focusing on one task at a time, individuals can eliminate distractions, improve concentration, and produce higher-quality work. Stack provides practical strategies for maintaining focus, such as setting specific time blocks for different tasks and minimizing interruptions. This insight is profound because it challenges the common belief that multitasking is an effective way to get things done. By adopting a single-tasking approach, individuals can enhance their productivity and achieve better outcomes.

3. The Power of Delegation

Stack highlights the power of delegation as a key strategy for maximizing productivity and effectiveness. She explains that delegating tasks to others not only frees up time for more important activities but also allows individuals to leverage the skills and expertise of others. Stack provides practical guidance on how to delegate effectively, including selecting the right tasks to delegate, identifying the right people for the job, and providing clear instructions and expectations.

By delegating tasks, individuals can focus on higher-value activities that align with their strengths and expertise. This insight is original to general knowledge because many people struggle with delegation, either due to a lack of trust or a desire to maintain control. However, by embracing delegation, individuals can increase their productivity and achieve better results by leveraging the capabilities of their team members.

4. The Importance of Self-Care

Stack emphasizes the importance of self-care in "Doing the Right Things Right." She explains that taking care of oneself physically, mentally, and emotionally is essential for maintaining high levels of productivity and well-being. Stack provides practical strategies for self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and taking breaks throughout the day.

By prioritizing self-care, individuals can recharge their energy, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. This insight is actionable because it reminds individuals that taking care of themselves is not selfish but rather necessary for optimal performance. By incorporating self-care practices into their daily routines, individuals can enhance their productivity and achieve better work-life balance.

5. The Power of Systems and Processes

Stack emphasizes the importance of systems and processes in achieving efficiency and effectiveness. She explains that having well-defined systems and processes in place can streamline workflows, reduce errors, and save time. Stack provides practical guidance on how to develop and implement effective systems and processes, including documenting workflows, standardizing procedures, and continuously improving them.

By leveraging systems and processes, individuals can work more efficiently, reduce the likelihood of mistakes, and free up time for more important tasks. This insight is profound because it highlights the value of investing time upfront to establish effective systems and processes, which can yield long-term benefits in terms of productivity and quality of work.

6. The Importance of Clear Communication

Stack emphasizes the importance of clear communication in "Doing the Right Things Right." She explains that effective communication is essential for building strong relationships, aligning expectations, and avoiding misunderstandings. Stack provides practical strategies for improving communication, such as active listening, asking clarifying questions, and providing feedback.

By improving communication skills, individuals can enhance collaboration, reduce conflicts, and ensure that tasks and projects are executed effectively. This insight is original to general knowledge because many people underestimate the impact of communication on productivity and success. By investing in improving communication skills, individuals can become more effective leaders and team members.

7. The Power of Continuous Learning

Stack highlights the power of continuous learning in "Doing the Right Things Right." She explains that staying curious, seeking new knowledge, and developing new skills are essential for personal and professional growth. Stack provides practical strategies for continuous learning, such as reading books, attending seminars, and seeking feedback.

By embracing continuous learning, individuals can stay relevant, adapt to changes, and unlock new opportunities. This insight is actionable because it encourages individuals to prioritize learning and provides practical tips for incorporating it into daily life. By committing to continuous learning, individuals can enhance their knowledge, skills, and overall effectiveness.

8. The Importance of Work-Life Integration

Stack challenges the notion of work-life balance and instead advocates for work-life integration. She explains that trying to achieve a perfect balance between work and personal life is unrealistic and can lead to unnecessary stress and guilt. Stack suggests integrating work and personal life in a way that aligns with individual values and priorities.

By embracing work-life integration, individuals can create a more harmonious and fulfilling life where work and personal responsibilities coexist. This insight is profound because it encourages individuals to redefine their relationship with work and prioritize what truly matters to them. By integrating work and personal life, individuals can achieve greater satisfaction and well-being.