Change 9 - Use Getting Things Done System

I have decided to, once again, use the Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity for managing and organizing my schedule. I say “once again” because, up until a few months ago, I was using this system.  But, for some reason, I moved away from it and went back to some old habits.

I really like GTD, because it allows me to get everything that is “in my head” out and on to paper, where I can better organize my thoughts and priorities.  GTD is awesome, and for the life of me, I don’t know why, other than just laziness, I moved away from it.  Tomorrow, I’ll get my old folders, sort through them, and start working the system.  I’ll probably reread the book, as well.

Change 8 - Perform Stretch Routine

I have decided to perform a daily stretch routine.  My muscles have, for several years, been very, very tight.  This tightness leads to lower back pack pain and leg cramping.  I plan to do the routine four times a week.

Over the years, I have suffered with lower back pain.  When I play golf, a game that I love, I spend the first four or five holes worried that my back is going to stiffen up and start giving me trouble.  Inevitably, this leads to stress - and on the golf course, stress kills.

When I was in high school, I actually went to a physical therapist.  She told me that my hamstrings were extremely tight and that I needed to stretch them three times a day!  Of course, like most high school kids, I just ignored her and didn’t do what she suggested.  Now, I’m paying the price.

Week 3 Updates - Changes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

Change 1 - Giving Up Sodas

I gave up sodas three weeks ago.  Since then, I have completely avoided all colas and I’ve even managed to avoid other caffeinated beverages.  I have been drinking water.

For Change 1, I give myself an A+

Change 2 - Walking 45 Minutes

I decided to walk 45 minutes, every day.  So far, I’ve managed to walk 45 minutes every-other-day, so I haven’t quite reached my goal.  However, I have been working on my cardio while playing golf and playing outside with the kids.

For Change 2, I give myself a C

Change 3 - Keep Kitchen Counter Clutter Free

I decided to remove the clutter from our kitchen counter.  So far, most of the clutter has been dealt with, but my wife and I have found that we need some place for new magazines, letters, and cards.  Instead of a completely cleared space, my goal is to keep the counter free of any unneccessary items.  My wife is happy with the counter, and that has to count for something!

For Change 3, I give myself a B+

Change 4 - Listen To And Learn Names

I decided to become a better listener - and do my best to remember names.  So far, this is the most difficult change to ‘test’.  I have been paying closer attention, but I haven’t really met that many new people1

For Change 4, I give myself an ‘Incomplete’

Change 5 - Giving Up Candy

I gave up candy.  I no longer eat sweets, chips, candy bars, or sugary snacks.  Amazingly, this change has been relatively easy to make.  I simply decided not to waste my money on junk food.  I miss it a little - but no that much.  Strange.

For Change 5, I give myself an A

Change 6 - Organize Email

I decided to take control of my email.  I’ve managed to sort through hundreds of old emails, rework my address books, and consolidate a couple of accounts.  But, I still have much more work to do before I’ll feel ‘on top’ of the email situation.  But, I feel much better today than I did last week.

For Change 6, I give myself a B-

Change 7 - Organize Closets

I decided to clean out and organize my closets.  Surprisingly, it only took about thirty minutes to do the initial ‘clean sweep’ of both closets.  I got rid of several old shirts and pairs of pants and then I threw away some old magazines that were cluttering my closet shelves.  Right now, both closets look great and I can actually find what I’m looking for, when it’s time to get dressed.  Progress!

For Change 7, I give myself a B+

I feel great about the changes I’m making - and the response to the 99 Changes Project. To keep up with me and my progress, subscribe to the 99 Changes. You can subscribe to 99 Changes 99 Changes by Email or via the RSS Feed.  So far, several hundred folks have already subscribed, and dozens have left comments or sent me email.  I want to thank all of you for your encouragement and I hope you’ll stick around as I move towards my ultimate goal - 99 Changes!