Getting Things Done for Coaches: Fewer Fires, More Flow

As a coach, your head is packed—practices, recruiting, travel, family, admin. David Allen’s Getting Things Done is built on one truth: your brain is for decisions, not storage. When you capture and organize everything outside your head, you free up focus for what matters.

Step 1: Capture Everything

Have one trusted inbox—notes app, notebook, or both. After practice or meetings, dump it all: drills to tweak, players to call, errands for home. One place only. No scraps scattered across texts, sticky notes, or memory.

Step 2: Clarify the Next Action

Big tasks are overwhelming. Break them down to the very next step.

• Not “Recruit John.” Instead: “Call John’s coach for schedule.”

• Not “Prep playbook.” Instead: “Print 20 copies of defensive set.”

Specific next steps mean less thinking, more doing.

Step 3: Work by Context

Coaching life runs in pockets of time. Use context lists so you can act fast.

• @Field: practice plans, equipment checks

• @Office: reports, film breakdown

• @Phone: recruiting calls, quick texts

• @Home: family logistics, bills

When you land in each space, pull that list. No wasted minutes.

Step 4: The Weekly Reset

Protect 30–45 minutes once a week.

• Empty every inbox—notes, email, texts

• Look two weeks ahead: games, travel, family events

• Renegotiate commitments before they explode

This reset is your safety net. It keeps you ahead instead of chasing fires.

Why This Works

When your system is solid, your mind stays clear and calm, ready to handle the next play. No scrambling, no mental overload. Just flow.

Capture it all. Clarify the step. Coach with a clear head.