Why bother to write a To Do List? Why not just keep it in our heads? We need to capture all our tasks into a list so that we can move them from vague or stressful thoughts about pending work to definite actions.
Productivity guru David Allen in his classic book Getting Things Done shares an essential insight:
We need to specifically define actions, concrete “next steps” we need to take in order to get the job done.
Say you want to build a new patio. What are some of the next steps you need to take to accomplish that goal?
- Decide on your budget.
- Look up local landscaping companies.
- Ask friends who they recommend.
- Request proposals from your top choice firms.
- Call their references.
- Choose a proposal.
- Schedule the job.
Perhaps you are planning a summer vacation. Your action steps might include:
- Check your family members’ schedules (work, school, or camps).
- Request vacation time at work.
- Make travel and hotel reservations.
- Hire a house sitter, pet sitter and/or lawn care professional.
By breaking the large goal into smaller next steps, you can line up manageable actions to do in sequence. In order to get them done:
Put each step on your calendar so that you accomplish all the steps on time.
If you like apps to help you capture and track your To-Do lists, try “Remember the Milk,” “Any Do” or “Toodle Do.” Enjoy the relief of capturing your tasks and the satisfaction of making real progress!
Rachel M. Gambone is the owner of ReOrganize with Rachel, LLC. In addition to general home organizing, she specializes in helping you organize your office, papers and digital information. Her signature approach is positive organizing where she builds on your strengths, helps you find your treasures, and teaches you life-long organizing skills. See more organizing tips and a link to her free podcast at reorganizewithrachel.com.
