Don't underestimate the power of a well thought out to-do list. It can be a powerful productivity tool to help you get organised and stay focused on your daily tasks. However, creating a to-do list that actually works requires more than simply jotting down a bunch of tasks.
Here are my five top tips to help you create a to-do list that actually helps you get things done.
Firstly, it's always helpful to do a bit of a brain dump - scribble down everything you need to get done on some scrap paper, in no particular order. It's just easier to see what you're dealing with rather than it all being in your head. Then...
1). prioritize your tasks
Not all tasks are created equal - some are more important than others, some more urgent, and some may require more time and effort. So start by prioritising the tasks in order of importance. It then makes sense to focus on the most critical and urgent items first, before moving on to less important tasks, and those that aren't time sensitive.
2). break down large tasks
Large or complex tasks can quickly become overwhelming, sometimes to the point where you find it difficult to even get started. Breaking down these tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can make the world of difference to feeling like you can tackle them. It will help you make progress toward your goal while making the overall task feel far less daunting.
It will also mean you can take a well timed break if you need to, before moving onto the next step, which is better than taking a break mid task and losing focus.
3). use time estimates
Estimating the amount of time each task will require can help you plan your day more effectively, ensuring you've actually given yourself enough time and not overcommitted. It's even more important to do this if your day also includes a schedule that you have to work around.
It's important that you be realistic with these estimates, and don't forget to allow yourself some scheduled breaks too.
4). be realistic
Don't overload your list with more tasks than you can realistically expect to accomplish in a day. It's far better to complete a smaller list successfully (prioritising by importance), than to feel defeated by a list that's far too long and completely unrealistic.
5). review & update
Your to-do list should be a flexible tool, being updated as needed. Regularly review your list to ensure you're making progress. For example, if you find that some tasks are consistently falling to the bottom of your list, and simply aren't getting done, consider whether they are truly important, and if they should be prioritised differently or removed entirely.
bonus tip!
It's nothing you haven't heard before, but it's SO important in order to actually get stuff done - get rid of ALL distractions. Yep, I'm talking about the phone, emails, social media and all the noise that stops you giving your full attention to the task at hand.
Turn off notifications or put your phone in another room if you have to, because each time you get distracted, even if it's just for a few minutes, to then return your attention to the task takes a lot more brain power to refocus - and when you are continually doing this, it can actually lead to brain fatigue.
Any tips to add to the list?
Share what works well for you in the comments below!
Elizabeth x
- Check out my favourite to do lists to help you smash those tasks!
