When it comes to getting things done, sometimes the simple productivity methods are the best. Case in point: the to-do list. This handy tool keeps you on track by putting tasks top of mind . . . unless you're doing it wrong. Mistakes on your to-do list could be putting your workday in jeopardy, say experts.
Although it might feel natural to create your to-do list first thing in the morning, it's too late. Writing the list at the end of the day allows you to leave work behind and tra...
Aspirational tasks, like writing a book, don’t belong on a to-do list; instead, create a separate bucket list.
Daily to-do lists should be focused. If you have a big project you want to complete, you can put it on your to-do list if you chunk it out into smaller, more attainable tasks.
If you're anything like me, your to-do list is filled with pressing tasks like "pick up prescription" right next to less time-sensitive undertakings, like "run consistently." Work to-dos mix with life to-dos; short term projects get listed under ambiguous goals that I don't want to forget about-it can get a bit unruly.
The purpose of this list is to know the tasks the are not important and are not worthwhile. There are a lot of things worthy of your time and getting rid of those unnecessary tasks will give you more time to complete more important tasks.
Reevaluate your to-do list: Identify the goals and determine how the items in your list impact your aims.
Create your not to-do list: Cut those unimportant tasks in your to-do list and paste it on your no to-do list. By doing this, you must accept that your time is limited and commit on letting them go.
Evaluate new tasks: From then on, once a new assignment arrives, evaluate its importance and the effects of it with your goals.
When feeling overwhelmed by the mountain of tasks ahead of you, sit down, take a breath, and write a to-do list. This isn't just a sneaky form of procrastination: Studies have shown that we're more likely to achieve our goals when we commit them to paper.
To set reasonable goals make a list for high-energy days and another for when you are reluctant to work. Both lists should follow an “if/then” model.
The first lists should have the more involved tasks, while the second list should feature more mindless tasks like cleaning out your inbox, organizing your desk, or even napping.