How to Create a To-Do List That Actually Works
What do you need to do today? If you’ve already scheduled time for each task on your calendar, making the day’s to-do list should be rather straightforward. There are two keys to employing to-do lists successfully.
First, break down your tasks. A to-do is one single task that will move a project or goal forward. For example, if your task is to create a production schedule for a catalog, one to-do is to e-mail the print vendor and set a print date that will allow you to create that schedule. Going through the exercise of creating a to-do list also reminds you of each step that needs to happen toward achieving your tasks in a given day.
Second, be speci?c. Don’t leave yourself cryptic notes. You might have “Schedule lunch with Rajiv” on your to-do list, but by the time you get to that item, you forget what the purpose of the lunch was or when you wanted to schedule it. Be more speci?c so that it’s clear why your to-do is important. Write it all out: “Schedule lunch with Rajiv on Friday at 1 p.m. to discuss the upcoming client meeting.”
To create your actual physical list:
- Put your list on a note card or oblong sheet of paper. Create a list you can see and carry with you. By putting it on a sheet of paper that is a special shape or size, it will stand out from the other papers on your desk.
- Note the due date next to the task. This is yet another reminder of how much time you have.
- Highlight your top priorities. Color-coding allows you to home in on those most important to-dos.
As you work, take a look at your to-do list regularly—every hour or so. Is it still manageable? Do some tasks need to be reprioritized or rescheduled? If you engage in this review every hour, you will start to take better control of your time. And you will get more work done.
Consider rewarding yourself for your efforts, too. When you cross three tasks off your list, give yourself a break or launch into an easy task next. The sense of accomplishment and reward will keep you motivated. By taking the time to understand your goals and how you spend your time, and then prioritizing and assigning times to your work, you can create daily to-do lists that are realistic and that ensure you’ll get the right work done at the right time.
Shawn Achor is a happiness author, researcher, and speaker - learn more about his work and sign up for the GoodThink monthly newsletter at shawnachor.com
This article was originally published at ascend.com
Leadership, Coaching, Building High Performance Teams, Positive Psychology
5 年As always very inspiring
Coaching to create & sustain change. It's not how you are & it's not how it is. You really can do things differently.
5 年I also like a "Not To Do List" - those things that you have taken off your To Do list to make it realistic.
Course Correction
5 年Simple, to the point, easy to implement.? And not a word about using Notes on your mobile phone.
Recently Retired - Seeking meaningful part-time employment
5 年Helpful advice Shawn! I start each day with a to-do list , I like your suggestions to fine tune my list! Thanks
Coaching to create & sustain change. It's not how you are & it's not how it is. You really can do things differently.
5 年I have a 'macro list' of the big stuff broken down into chunks, then I transfer some of the broken down bits into my diary for the week. It helps me keep on top of the overall picture and control what I'm putting into my diary. I have to manage my tendency to put too much in and this helps.