Why is it useful to segment your information based on different timescales? Because each timescale requires a very different mindset and way of thinking.

Day to day, in the trenches of getting things done, you want to focus only on your active projects. Projects include actions that need to be taken and information that needs to be reviewed in the next few hours or days. At this timescale, things are changing fast, so you should keep that information close at hand and at the center of your attention.

These are the kinds of questions that are relevant on this short-term horizon:

• •  Which projects are most active right now?
• •  Which tasks are most time-sensitive?
• •  What are the next steps you need to take to move them forward?
• •  What information do you need access to in order to do so?

Areas and resources become relevant on a longer time horizon, stretching from weeks to months. You may not need to refer to them much during the workweek, when you’re just fighting fires. But occasionally, such as during a weekly review, it’s wise to elevate your perspective and think about the long term. This is when the content you’ve collected in your areas of responsibility and resources becomes valuable.

At these times of deeper reflection, ask yourself these questions:

• •  What is the standard (of quality or performance) I’m committed to in each of my areas of responsibility?
• •  Am I currently meeting that standard?
• •  If not, are there any new projects, habits, routines, or other practices I can start, stop, or change?
• •  Are there any resources that would enable me to do so?

When evaluating your resources, ask yourself questions like:

• •  Are there any new interests or passions I’d like to pursue more seriously?
• •  Are there any curiosities or questions I’d like to start exploring?
• •  Are there any hobbies or pursuits I’ve allowed to stagnate that I’d like to reboot?

By separating out the information in your life according to when it will be needed, PARA gives you a sense of perspective appropriate to whichever time horizon is calling for your attention. It allows you to work simultaneously across different timescales to bring into existence the future you’re trying to create.