To do lists

A written to-do list is a simple technique that can increase your productivity by 20% or more!  Sometimes people find that writing something down gives it more importance and helps them to remember.  To-do lists even have extra benefits of clearing your mind and saving your energy, reducing stress.

It doesn’t take much time.  Spending 5-10 minutes each day on planning your activities with a daily to-do list is all you should need.  It is important that you actually write your tasks but this doesn’t have to be only on paper.  Some people are more comfortable with pen and paper while others find it easier to use a computer.  The most important thing to remember when writing your to-do list is to give priority to your tasks.  Order your tasks in the order that they should be completed such as a numbered list.  Give higher priority to the tasks that get you closer to your goals!

There are systems you can use too other then a numbered list.  Another method that is useful is the “ABC” method.  Placing either an A, B, or C beside your to-do points gives them a certain priority over others.  This method is useful when you feel certain tasks should have the same priority.  Generally the “ABC” system assigns priority as follows:

• A = tasks critical to your goals and must be done that day (or face serious consequences)
• B = less important tasks but are still urgent after A tasks have been completed
• C = “nice to do” things if there is still time after A and B tasks which can easily be moved to another day if needed

Understandably even while following your daily plan of activities unforeseen circumstances or events may occur.  If during a day some new unplanned task comes up, try not to do anything until you put that new task on your list and rate it by the priority system you have in place.  Put it in perspective amongst the other written tasks you already have planned.  If there are large complex tasks try breaking them into smaller manageable pieces that you can focus on one at a time.