Lists can be overwhelming and then guess what, you ignore them. But the benefits of the to-do list are vast. If you make a well-constructed
list it'll work to your advantage. Here's how to make the ultimate to-do list and stick to it. Step number one, just write it down.
When you're feeling stretched too thin it's probably because you don't have a clear picture of what you need to do next. This step
is all about the brain dump. Get it out of your head, put it down on paper. It's easy to forget things that you don't have right there
in front of you. So write down all of your tasks and put it on this master list. It doesn't matter if the list is in any kind of order
right now, just write it down. This step will serve as an instant stress reliever. Once you get those nagging to-do's out of your head
and down on paper, you instantly feel better. Step number two, organize your list. Once you know all the things you have to do organize
this list. Break it up into categories, work, home, kids, play, and so on. Each area of your life should have its own list. Don't mix.
It'll overwhelm you and then you'll ignore it. I actually suggest that you make daily to-do lists and set them up like this. Write
the date at the top, list out all your work to-do's on the left-hand side, and then reserve the bottom right for any personal to-do's
that you need to get done throughout the day. You know, the things that always pop up, like going to the bank or buying a birthday
card. On the upper right of the paper, that's where you'll put any notes. So if you have to write down a phone number or a date or
something really quick use, that space. This spot is not meant for long notes, just a little scribble. And at the bottom put any after
work reminders on the bottom right. Like you're meeting a friend for dinner or going out to see a concert. The bottom left is where
you'll stick reminders to yourself when you get distracted. It's bound to happen a couple times during the day, it's fine. But instead
use this space to remember where you left off and then you can more quickly get back to the task at hand. This will serve as your roadmap
for the day. Step number three, prioritize. Once you have your separate lists, go over each item and order them by deadline or importance.
This way you can stay on track and focus on what needs to be done right now. Sure, there may be other tasks that are easier to do,
but not as important. Reject your temptation to jump into those tasks first just because they're easy. It'll put you behind schedule.
Step number four, rewrite your list if it's necessary. Now that you have a nice organized list by category and you've decided what's
important, rewrite it. It's easy to read and then you'll do it. See, that's the difference. And finally, step number five, repeat.
This needs to be your routine every single day, that's how the habit will stick. I make a list every day and then I add to it. Sure,
it's like having a little cheat sheet, but don't worry, I won't tell anybody.
