An Inside Look at GTD: An Interview with David Allen and Mike Williams, CEO of The David Allen Company

Getting Things Done, or GTD, has become more than just a productivity system – it’s a way of life for many of us looking to achieve our goals and stay organized in our personal and professional lives. David Allen, the founder of the David Allen Company and creator of GTD, has been leading the charge for years, spreading his teachings and helping people work more efficiently.

In a recent interview with Lifehack, Allen and the company’s new CEO, Mike Williams, sat down to talk about their plans for the future of GTD, how Williams came on board, and the one thing they recommend people do to prepare themselves for the coming year.

The History of the David Allen Company

In the interview, Allen discussed the history of the company and how it has grown over the years. He explained how he and his wife, Kathryn, made the decision to expand GTD beyond just his personal game and build a business around it.

Allen also discussed the decision to bring on Williams as the new CEO and how they met. Allen had always been impressed with Williams’ background and experience at General Electric, and thought he would be the ideal person to lead the David Allen Company into the future.

When asked about his decision to become CEO of the David Allen Company, Williams explained how his exposure to GTD back in 2004 had a profound impact on his life and career. He discussed how his experience at General Electric and his entrepreneurial spirit led him to seek out a smaller private company doing really cool work that aligned with his value system – and how the David Allen Company was the perfect fit.

Preparing for the Coming Year

Towards the end of the interview, the conversation turned to how people can prepare themselves for the coming year. Allen emphasized the importance of reflection and cleaning house, rather than just starting new things. He recommended people start to pay attention to what has their attention, externalize all of that, and step back to take a look.

Williams echoed this sentiment, suggesting people get a map of where they are, what’s true, what’s pulling on them, and what’s there – essentially taking stock of their current reality. He also recommended people set aside time for reflection and introspection, such as a monthly or quarterly review.

Moving Forward with GTD

Overall, the interview provided insight into the future of GTD and the leadership of the David Allen Company. With Williams at the helm, the company is poised to continue spreading the GTD method and helping people achieve their goals and improve their lives.

As Allen put it, “The world needs this stuff – it needs the methodology and the tools – and that’s what we’re here for.” With the continued expansion of the David Allen Company, the world will have greater access to the tools and teachings that have already helped so many improve their productivity, personal organization, and overall well-being.