Weekly Review Practice
Essential GTD ritual of comprehensively reviewing all commitments, projects, and lists each week to maintain system integrity and make informed decisions about priorities and next actions.
Last updated: 2026-03-21 05:48
Weekly Review Practice
A cornerstone of the Getting Things Done methodology where you step back from daily execution to review all commitments, update lists, and prepare for the week ahead.
Purpose
- Keep system current and complete
- Regain control and perspective
- Build trust in your system
- Make better priority decisions
- Clear mental clutter
The Weekly Review Process
Get Clear
- Process all inboxes: Empty every capture point
- Review notes: Process meeting notes, loose papers
- Clear email: Get inbox to zero or near-zero
Get Current
- Review calendar: Past week and upcoming weeks
- Review next actions: Update, complete, remove
- Review projects list: Update status, next actions
- Review waiting for: Follow up as needed
- Review someday/maybe: Any now ready to activate?
Get Creative
- Capture new ideas: Brainstorm, add possibilities
- Review goals: Check alignment with bigger picture
Time Investment
- Schedule 1-2 hours weekly
- Same time each week (Friday afternoon popular)
- Sacred, non-negotiable time
- Initial reviews may take longer
Benefits
- Peace of mind for the week
- Clear next actions
- Updated priorities
- Nothing falling through cracks
- Ready to engage effectively
Best Practices
- Block calendar for review time
- Minimize distractions
- Use consistent checklist
- Make it enjoyable (music, coffee)
- Don't skip—even if busy
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