Be a Schedule Builder, Not a To-Do List Maker

It's much easier to fill up our to-do list than to actually do the tasks.

Constantly reminding ourselves that we didn't do what we said we'd do cements a self-stereotype: We begin to see ourselves as someone who doesn't follow through. Eventually and subconsciously, we begin to see ourselves as the problem. The narrative is that we are not good with deadlines; maybe we are no good. In reality, the real culprit is the to-do list methodology.

While to-do lists are supposed to keep us on task, they don't.

To-do lists lead to more distraction. A distraction is any action that draws us away from what we plan to do. Working on a task can be a distraction if it is not what you committed to doing with your time. For example, instead of working on a big planned project, looking at your to-do list can give you 'permission' to escape into doing something else, thereby putting off the real hard task.

A to-do list is a cruel and oppressive ruler. To-do lists occupy our minds, stress us out and drain enjoyment out of our lives.

Few people know what leisure time is supposed to feel like. Unfinished tasks invade our thoughts when we try to relax and sometimes keep us up at night worrying about the tasks we still have to do.

If you want to stop the tyranny of the to-do list, you must break the habit of letting your list tell you what to do. Build a weekly schedule instead. For example, study from 2-4 pm, exercise from 4-6 pm, work from 6-9 pm, work on the to-do list from 9-10 pm.

• Being a schedule builder will affirm a better self-image.
• You are more likely to stay on track by adding a fixed time.
• You will be freed from feeling you should be doing something else.