Eric Mack On-Line

In May of 1997, I joined a small group of advisors at David Allen's home, in Ojai, for a "Meeting under the Oaks." There, under the beautiful Oak trees in David and Kathryn's front yard, we reviewed the history of David's business and his ideas, dreams and business plan for the new company - "The David Allen Company." It was an inspiring meeting and I'm both delighted and honored to have been a part of this group and the growth of the organization.

One of the goals that David shared with us, was to write his first book. We discussed the challenges of trying to write a book while building a company; we agreed - some more vocally than others - that the book would be an essential strategic component to get the word out about David's work and to help people.

Many months later, David handed me one of the first hardcover copies of GTD, fresh from the publisher. He had completed another major project on his list - to write his first book. Now, the next action was to get the word out.



Word spread fast. Most of you know the rest of the story.

As David's strategic technologist for more than a dozen years, I've had the unique opportunity to work with David personally and observe the behind-the-scenes activities of the company as it grew. I've watched and helped as David put into practice the things that he writes and speaks about. I can tell you that the behavior and processes described in the book are the same used in the company and the same David uses at his desk. (And I've seen his in-box when it's full.) For that reason, and more importantly, because of my own experience, I'm happy to share with everyone I meet that the GTD methodology really works. It has changed my life and my work.

Apparently, I'm not the only one who thinks so.

Business Week, has just posted next week's news - that David Allen's book , Getting Things Done, has topped the paperback best-seller list.

It's exciting to see that people everywhere recognize David "advanced common sense" provides a framework for becoming more productive and remaining stress free in a world of too much to do.

Way to go, David!

David, it's time to move "GTD at top of best-seller list' to your list of completed successful outcomes.

David, you've been a great friend, encourager, and personal champion for many years. I appreciate your friendship and the impact the things that you have taught me have had on my life. I delight in your success.


UPDATE: I'm planning to head over to David's this afternoon. If you would like to share your story or words of congratulations, I'll print them and hand-deliver them to David.