Create way to execute – a weekly review

Dear Yogesh,

I recently completed the GTD® course and have begun doing a weekly review. During the training, I learned that a weekly review involves (1) Getting Clear, (2) Getting Current, and (3) Getting Creative. I’d love some tips on how to approach the “Getting Creative” part. I want to think about my to-do list more creatively, but I’m not sure how to do that. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Chaman Mehra

Dear Chaman,

It’s great that you’re embracing the GTD® method and your weekly review! In my experience, the “Get Creative” aspect often unfolds naturally as I move through the process of cleaning up and getting current. As I review my calendar, new ideas or insights tend to pop up—sometimes a small thought or a shift in perspective about something I’ve been working on. Similarly, as I check off tasks and reflect on what’s been done, it clears space for more creative thinking. This is especially true when new commitments emerge, and I have to clarify them into next actions, which in itself is a creative act.

When it comes to the “Get Creative” phase, it’s really about good, focused thinking and decision-making. And when you’re thorough about reviewing the operational side of your life, creativity often arises from that. It’s about letting your mind work with the material you’ve just processed, allowing insights to surface more easily.

That said, you can also intentionally spark creativity during your weekly review by exploring different areas of your life. A great place to start is your Someday/Maybe list. Are there any items on that list you’re ready to make a priority? Are there any ideas or goals you haven’t fully captured yet? Refreshing and completing this list can be a surprisingly fun and creative exercise. For instance, in the past few weeks, I revisited a long-held idea from my Someday/Maybe list—”take a balloon ride.” I turned that dream into an active project, and now I’m about to float over the hills of Chianti in Italy with my wife and a friend!

But don’t wait for your weekly review to get creative. Creativity can be sparked in many ways—through writing, drawing, dancing, cooking, or simply expressing gratitude to those you admire. Add a list of creative activities to your weekly review and make it a point to try something new or different each week. Whether it’s an unexpected action or a new thought you’ve never considered, engaging with creativity in this way can truly elevate the experience.

So, consider adding a few creative exercises to your routine. If you reflect on them with intention, and make a habit of capturing and completing some of these activities, you’ll find yourself thinking and acting more creatively in all areas of your life.

Best wishes,

Yogesh