Getting Things Done Ep. 351: Projects and Next Actions
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Feb 25, 2026 Interactive lab-style session on defining projects as multi-step outcomes and using a flexible one-year guideline. Clear focus on identifying true next actions as physical, visible steps. Tips on avoiding future or delegated items in next-action lists and catching missed projects during clarification. Practical drills on speeding up decisions and keeping project lists tidy with weekly reviews.
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Project Defined By One Year Review Cycle
- A project is any multi-step outcome you must complete within about one year.
- Ana Maria uses the rule of thumb: if you need to review it weekly, put it on your projects list.
Make Next Actions Physical And Visible
- Define next actions as the very next physical, visible activity that progresses something toward completion.
- Choose a clear verb so you can mentally see yourself doing the action and avoid vague wording.
Keep Next Actions Sequentially Doable
- Avoid mixing true next actions with sequential or dependent actions you can't do yet.
- Keep lists precise so you won't be blocked by items that require something else to happen first.