Bringing Balance to our Days
I love my "to do" list. But I usually have a lot of list left at the end of my day!
My list helps me stay on task. Checking off what I have completed gives me a feeling of accomplishment. And having my appointments, errands, and projects written down gives my mind a much needed rest!
Whether you are a seasoned list-maker or you break out in a cold sweat at the mere mention of the list, one trick to being productive is making the "to do" list work for you. Bring balance to your days with these practical list-making tips.
Divide and Conquer
Break your master list into categories:
Decide what you want to accomplish each day. Write down non-negotiable items first-appointments and assignments. Now you can tell how much time you have left in each day to devote to other errands or projects. Add first from your "need to" list and then from your "like to" list.
Keeping it Real
Most of us are sure we will be able to accomplish more in a day than is humanly possible. So, if you want to make your list realistic, go back and remove half the items you just added!
Dealing with Deadlines
For assignments with deadlines, don't wait until the last day. Start with your deadline date and work backwards. Break up your assignment into mini-tasks, and then give yourself mini-deadlines for each of the tasks. You won't feel so overwhelmed and you will be more likely to complete the assignment on time.
Get 'er Done
Begin your day with tasks that inspire you. If checking off four quick errands motivates you to work on bigger projects, then complete your small tasks first. If you have more energy and concentration in the morning, then you'll want to tackle those big projects as you start your day.
Time to Move on
Have you ever had an item plague your "to do" list for months? When a task has been on your list for weeks-because with the best intentions you keep shuffling it to next week's "to do" list-it's time to realize that particular task isn't important to you. Give yourself permission to remove the item from your list once and forever.
Make sure Life is on your List
For the consummate list-maker, it is easy to get so caught up in checking off our tasks that we forget to spend time living. If you are someone who lives by the list, then make sure you add life to your non-negotiable list. Schedule "life appointments" with your family and friends, even yourself! Make an appointment with life every day. Treat these appointments as you would an appointment with the President. If someone calls and needs that space you simply explain you aren't available as you already have an appointment scheduled in that time slot. You don't have to tell them what the appointment is! I did this just today!
Master or Slave
Make sure your list knows its rightful place. Be willing to toss your list altogether if something truly important comes up. If the thought of living without a list strikes terror in your heart, then you have become a slave to the list. It's no longer your tool, it's your master. For one week, don't make a list. If you miss an appointment, the world won't end. You'll find you will accomplish what is truly important and you'll realize how many unimportant tasks clutter your list and eat up your time.
Share with us what you do to bring balance to your days, even if it has nothing to do with a list!