I ran across the “Four D’s” in Tim Allen’s book “Getting Things Done” (GTD) and they have really made a
difference over the long term. In brief, they are:

1. Do It: Can you do it now, in the time available? Then do it.
2. Defer It: Not enough time? Put it on the calendar with an appropriate time block.
   Stick to the calendar (this is key).
3. Delegate It: Maybe somebody else should do this task? Assign it. Put time in the calendar
   to circle back for progress. Repeat until done.
4. Drop It: Be honest with yourself. Maybe this is not something that really needs to be done.

Long-term/larger projects require you to schedule time to plan/schedule the work. Two other tips from the book that I use:

1. “Maybe Someday” Bin: For ideas, tasks, rogue thoughts, etc. that clutter your mind.
2. Time/Place Tagging: When collecting things that need to get done, tag them by “time to complete” and/or
   “place to do this task” (1 hour, Home). Suddenly have free time? How much? Hit the tag for that timing and choose a task.
   At the grocery store? Hit that tag and never forget that one-off thing you were trying to remember to pick up.

Any activity that doesn't map to your goal.
In the sense, any activity that does not help you move closer to your Goal. 🙂

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