How to Create a To-Do List in 3 Easy Steps
Do you think creating to-do lists is overwhelming?
There are so many methods out there and so many with the so-called “right” and “wrong” ways to go about it, that surely creating a to-do list is a hard thing for anyone who is even a bit new to it!
I was completely confused when I started creating to-do lists myself. One book I read recommending one method and then the very next book would go on in lengths explaining why that previous method didn’t work and then there’d be another one and another one….
It was quite confusing indeed!
Anyhow, whether you are new to creating to-do lists or are a seasoned pro, here’s a really easy 3 step method that works very well!
1. Collect ALL Tasks
One of the main reasons why we stress out and burn out is because we have no idea what tasks needs to get done. There are so many things going on in our head, so many tasks to do, so many priorities to take care of that they are slowly driving us insane!
And, when your tasks are overwhelming you, it’s pretty difficult to sit down and think clearly so the first thing you want to do is write down all the tasks so that your mind can relax a little.
Write down all the tasks that need to get done.
2. Decide which tasks you want to handle tomorrow
Alright, now that you’ve written down all your concerns, start off by picking which ones are to be answered tomorrow.
3. Prioritize NOW
There are tons of ways to prioritize. I like the good old A-E method. Here’s how that goes:
A – Incredibly important tasks – serious consequences if not done
B – Quite important – not as important as A
C – Could be left off the list – consequences aren’t that big
D – Tasks you can delegate
E – Tasks that can be either eliminated or easily postponed for review
Now, just go back and put these letters beside each task for the next day.
There you have it. You have a fully functional and very powerful to-do list.
What you need to do now is to keep your focus.
And make sure your to-do list doesn’t restrain you.
Your to-do list should work to reduce stress, not to create more stress for you!