Overview
Trigger List Productivity Method uses structured prompt lists to systematically recall all commitments, projects, and actions across life and work areas.
What is a Trigger List
Purpose
- Prompt memory of uncommitted items
- Ensure comprehensive capture
- Prevent forgotten commitments
- Support complete weekly reviews
Common Categories
- Projects by area of responsibility
- People you interact with regularly
- Locations where work happens
- Upcoming events and deadlines
- Areas of life (health, finance, relationships)
Implementation in GTD
Weekly Review Process
- Review trigger list categories
- For each item, ask "Is there anything here?"
- Capture any items triggered
- Process into next actions
- Update project lists
Trigger List Examples
Work Projects
- Client projects
- Internal initiatives
- Team management
- Process improvements
Personal Areas
- Home maintenance
- Health and fitness
- Financial planning
- Relationships
Contexts
- Calls to make
- Emails to send
- Errands to run
- Items to discuss with manager
Benefits
- Complete capture of commitments
- Reduced mental stress
- Fewer surprises
- Comprehensive life management
- Trust in system
Creating Custom Trigger Lists
- Review past 3 months of calendar
- Note all areas of responsibility
- List key people and relationships
- Add regular locations
- Include areas causing current stress
- Refine quarterly
Usage Frequency
- Weekly review: Full trigger list
- Daily: Key contexts only
- Monthly: Deeper life areas
- Quarterly: Complete life audit
Pricing
Free practice - part of Getting Things Done methodology
