The Two-Plan Method I use to get more done ✅

Summary

This video script discusses the productivity benefits of 'planning twice and doing once.' The speaker shares two methods for duplicating plans to boost productivity: first, creating a messy paper draft and then transferring it to a digital system, which helps in reformatting the information in the brain; second, taking digital plans and writing them down on paper for a clearer mental model. The video also highlights the importance of a strong 'closing the loop' system to ensure tasks are completed and not left hanging across different planning systems.

Takeaways

• 📝 The speaker advocates for a dual planning method that involves both digital and paper systems to enhance productivity.
• 🔄 The concept of 'planning twice and doing once' is introduced as a way to solidify plans and tasks in one's mind.
• 📈 Writing plans on paper first allows for a creative and flexible drafting process, which can then be refined in a digital system.
• 🤖 The act of transferring plans from paper to a digital platform helps in reformatting the information in one's brain, leading to a better understanding.
• 🎨 Creative projects benefit from this method as it allows for a messy first draft on paper and a structured final draft in a digital format.
• 🗓 For goal setting and planning, a loose timeline is sketched on paper and then implemented in a digital system like a task manager or calendar.
• 📱 The speaker uses a specific digital planning system called 'Asana' and 'Aif flow' to manage tasks and timelines effectively.
• 📚 Aif flow is highlighted as a tool that integrates various planning apps into one, allowing for a comprehensive view of tasks and calendars.
• 📝 The importance of writing down daily tasks and events in a physical planner is emphasized for a focused and less distracting approach to productivity.
• ✅ A strong 'closing the loop' system is crucial to ensure that tasks are updated and completed consistently across all planning platforms.
• 🧘‍♂️ The process of transferring digital plans to paper is described as relaxing and comforting, providing a break from digital distractions.

Q & A

What is the main idea behind the 'plan twice and do once' productivity system mentioned in the script?

The main idea is to write down plans more than once to enhance productivity. This involves initially planning in a messy, free-form manner on paper and then transferring it to a digital or more permanent system, which helps in reformatting the information in one's brain and gaining a better understanding of the plan.

Why is writing on paper suggested as the first step in planning?

Writing on paper is suggested as the first step because it activates the whole brain, including motor skills, creative thinking, and both long-term and short-term memory. This physical act of writing helps in processing and cementing the information being worked on.

What are the two major ways in which planning twice and doing once can be beneficial according to the script?

The two major ways are: 1) Planning messily on paper and then duplicating it into a digital or more permanent system, and 2) Taking plans made in a digital environment and moving them offline by writing them out on a paper planner for a clearer mental model and reduced distractions.

How does the act of translating a plan from one context to another help in understanding?

Translating a plan from one context to another, such as from paper to digital, helps reformat the information in the brain, leading to a better understanding and smoother problem-solving as it forces the brain to work around the kinks and ripples in the plan.

What is an example of a creative project that benefits from the 'plan twice and do once' method?

An example given is the creation of a video script. The speaker drafts the script on paper, including ideas, concepts, and talking points, and then translates this messy draft into a structured Google doc with sections and bullet points.

How does the speaker use the 'plan twice and do once' method for setting goals and plans?

The speaker sketches out a loose timeline on paper for goals and plans, such as a transition plan for a job promotion, and then puts this timeline into a digital system like a to-do list manager or calendar to make the timeline a reality.

What is the name of the digital planning system used by the speaker in the script?

The speaker uses a digital planning system called 'Asana', which is also the sponsor of the video.

How does the speaker integrate tasks into their calendar using Asana?

The speaker creates tasks in Asana and then drags and drops them onto their calendar. Asana automatically schedules these tasks into the day, allowing the speaker to visualize and organize their week effectively.

What is the benefit of writing out tasks and events from a digital calendar onto paper?

Writing out tasks and events on paper helps to activate the brain's memory centers, providing a clearer and less distracting view of one's schedule, and allowing for a more relaxed and focused approach to task completion.

Why is it important to have a strong 'closing the loop' system when using the 'plan twice and do once' method?

A strong 'closing the loop' system is important to ensure that any incomplete tasks are immediately addressed across all planning systems, preventing discombobulation and maintaining consistency, which is key to accomplishing goals.

How does the speaker suggest using the 'plan twice and do once' method for daily to-do lists?

The speaker suggests writing out daily tasks and events from a digital task manager onto paper, which allows for a focused and relaxed approach to productivity, away from digital distractions.