The Power to Get Things Done: About the Book
One of the reasons many people pick up a book like this is to consider new approaches to time management. The Power to Get Things Done tackles a tough problem that many people struggle with, time. However, the authors, Steve Levinson, and Chris Cooper look to consider it in a different way. They explain the necessity, or more specifically, the ‘follow-through’ that enables us to be successful and get things done.
In part one, the first thing the authors do is let you, the reader, off the hook. They explain that, typically, our intentions are not hardwired to our behaviour. In fact, we learn that not many people are! An interesting concept that explores the term ‘outliers’, is usually attributed to Malcolm Gladwell’s book of the same name. This gives the reader a feeling of vindication. Meanwhile, you know that despite having the power, getting things done will be hard work and change is inevitably required.
The Power to Get Things Done Gives You Time to Reflect
Levinson and Cooper de-mystify the notion of planning tasks. They ask you to reflect on what really is important to you. This becomes prevalent in chapter three which focuses on business owners, albeit not exclusively. This is a serious chapter. It asks you to reflect on not achieving those critical tasks such as tax returns and sales calls. Those crucial elements that as an employee, for instance, would normally just be day-to-day annoyances. However, now, they have become critical to your success.
Echoes of Coaching
The authors clearly explain in the opening that this is not a ‘read in one go’ book. Not many management books are. Alongside this, it advises how to use the book for maximum effect. For instance, by introducing chapter-end questions for reflection. This is not a self-help book. It doesn’t tell but asks you to reflect, plan and change your mindset. In many ways, very similar to coaching.
Mindset changes from ‘could’ and ‘should’, for example, to make a solid plan, are the backbone of this book – and it works!
Powerful and Thoughtful
In The Power to Get Things Done, Levinson and Cooper use simple yet effective language to get their messages across. Breaking down mental barriers into small mindset changes that ask you to change your approach or fail. I picked up this book with an open mind and glad I did.
The authors come across as honest, they write well, and, most importantly, make valid points. Moreover, they take the old notion of time management, change the landscape and place a contemporary viewpoint on it. Powerful in its analogies and examples, thoughtful in its everyday application, this is a book worth keeping to hand. A great read with positive intentions.
