What I have started to do is to write a short to-do list at the start of each day. If I don't finish it that is fine but it helps me at least set up some tasks I need to do and get to them as quickly as I can.
However, one thing. Hard problems are FUN. Double for hard problems that have some bearing on current work, even if it isn't critically important to the immediate moment. So I think it is important to allow for a certain amount of productive distractions.
I would also add one more thing. These rabbit holes can be good for another reason when running a business: they keep you on your toes regarding to what you need to do to succeed and sometimes the solutions are important ones to pursue as a business strategy.
I totally agree. As a developer in my startup, my job involves cranking out code. But as a founder in my startup, I need maintain a giant reverse index of things that are happening in technology. These two goals can be conflicting at times.
Absolutely agree with you on the task ahead.
Sticky notes does the job when you can actually finish them on time or even complete. There is a complete discord on what we set out to achieve and what needed to be done - on the task.
What do you think of trello and task based applications in this case?
However, one thing. Hard problems are FUN. Double for hard problems that have some bearing on current work, even if it isn't critically important to the immediate moment. So I think it is important to allow for a certain amount of productive distractions.
I would also add one more thing. These rabbit holes can be good for another reason when running a business: they keep you on your toes regarding to what you need to do to succeed and sometimes the solutions are important ones to pursue as a business strategy.