Editing Getting Things Done (section)

=== Perspective ===
Allen emphasizes two key elements of GTD—''control'' and ''perspective''. The workflow is the center of the control aspect. The goal of the control processes in GTD is to get everything except the current task out of one's head and into this trusted system external to one's mind. He borrows a [[simile]] used in [[martial arts]] termed "mind like water". When a small object is thrown into a pool of water, the water responds appropriately with a small splash followed by quiescence. When a large object is thrown in the water again responds appropriately with a large splash followed by quiescence. The opposite of "mind like water" is a mind that never returns to quiescence but remains continually stressed by every input.<ref name="Allen2015" />{{rp|12}} With a trusted system and "mind like water" one can have a better perspective on one's life. {{anchor|sixLevels}}Allen recommends reflection from six levels, called "Horizons of Focus":<ref name="Allen2015" />{{rp|215–219}}
*{{anchor|h5}} Horizon 5: Life
*{{anchor|h4}} Horizon 4: Long-term visions
*{{anchor|h3}} Horizon 3: 1–2 year goals
*{{anchor|h2}} Horizon 2: Areas of focus and accountability
*{{anchor|h1}} Horizon 1: Current projects
*{{anchor|h0}} Ground: Current actions

Unlike some theories, which focus on [[wikt:top-down|top-down]] goal-setting, GTD works in the opposite direction. Allen argues that it is often difficult for individuals to focus on big picture goals if they cannot sufficiently control the day-to-day tasks that they frequently must face.<ref name="Allen2015" />{{rp|54}} By developing and using the trusted system that deals with day-to-day inputs, an individual can free up mental space to begin moving up to the next level.<ref name= Allen2001 />{{rp|13}}

Allen recommends scheduling a weekly review, reflecting on the [[#sixLevels|six different levels]]. The perspective gained from these reviews should drive one's priorities at the project level.<ref name="Allen2015" />{{rp|50}} Priorities at the project level in turn determine the priority of the individual tasks and commitments gathered during the workflow process. During a weekly review, determine the context for the tasks and put each task on its appropriate list. An example of grouping together similar tasks would be making a list of outstanding telephone calls, or the tasks/errands to perform while out shopping. Context lists can be defined by the set of tools available or by the presence of individuals or groups for whom one has items to discuss or present.<ref name= Allen2001 />{{rp|35}}