I wrote a review on Amazon for this book, http://www.amazon.com/Technique-Getting-Things-Done-Directin... , published in 1947, "This is a very useful book on getting things done. If you need hand-holding and specific techniques you can apply without thinking too much it's not for you. It gives few specific techniques, instead it focuses on general methods applicable to almost anything and on many inspirational anecdotes. Very readable." Most of the anecdotes involve the need for persistence and consistent effort.