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Next actions or actions?

When you're listing out next actions, do you limit your next action list to the next action with that project OR do you list the next several actions with the project?

Example:
@Next Actions
* Call Mom about rent
* Schedule time to reboot PC
* Put letter in mailbox, raise flag

or

@Next Actions
* Write letter to John
* Address and stamp envelope re: letter to John
* Put letter in mailbox, raise flag

I realize I'm probably splitting hairs on this but it's been getting to me lately.

Thanks!

Ernie Ayres

Antemeridian's picture

When you're listing out next...

eayres;7812 wrote:
When you're listing out next actions, do you limit your next action list to the next action with that project OR do you list the next several actions with the project?

Example:
@Next Actions
* Call Mom about rent
* Schedule time to reboot PC
* Put letter in mailbox, raise flag

or

@Next Actions
* Write letter to John
* Address and stamp envelope re: letter to John
* Put letter in mailbox, raise flag

I realize I'm probably splitting hairs on this but it's been getting to me lately.

Thanks!

Ernie Ayres

Hi Ernie,

In your second list of actions, I would only list write letter to John, as the others can't be completed until I complete that first one (well, I guess you could address and stamp the envelope first, but I digress). When I complete that task, if I then automatically move to the next task, it never needs to be written. However, if I've written said letter, and its sitting on my desk and I have to go somewhere, then I'll throw the next step, such as getting it ready for mailing, on the step so I've got a placeholder when I come back.

However, if a related task, such as buy stamps because you don't have any is required, then I'd definitely list that.

Hope this helps,

Adam

 
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