What is work that shows up?

[artsinaction]

There're 3 types of work: processing, predefined and work as it shows up. Am I getting it right? Processing is processing and it's clear. Predefined work is my calendared actions and meetings as well as my action lists. What is work as it shows up then: spare time when I'm just sitting and waiting for something to happen? Looks fun

You're on the right track... The first is defining your work. It includes things like reviewing your lists, emptying your inbox, determining with thoughtfulness what actions/projects you want to work on that day or accomplish that week, for example. This is the one that most people, myself included, spend less time on than they should. It's sort of the thing that gets forgotten as meetings and unexpected duties show up. I'm sure others can explain it more eloquently, but generally it's planning time you set aside to make your day intentional.

Work as it shows up includes things like your boss asking for something earlier than planned, or a co-worker taking an unexpected absence and everyone has to pick up the workload, or you look outside and see a broken sprinkler and now you have to stay home to get it fixed. All of the things you can't plan for fall into this category. And the more confidence you have in your system, the more flexible you can be when those things come up.

Good questions!

Dena