Don’t get overwhelmed by your “to do” list and get paralysed by inaction and allow your list to spiral out of control!
It’s the simple steps that make a real difference and studies have shown that people perform better when they have written down what they need to do. Also they give us a structure, a plan that we can stick to; and they are proof of what we have achieved that day which makes us happier and have a sense of achievement.
- Plan to take 5 mins at the end and start of each day to review your to do list
- Write down on paper 3 – 6 tasks at the end of each day
- Review your 2 – 6 tasks at the start of each day
- When you’ve completed them cross them out with a big black marker
- Reward yourself when you achieve your daily tasks
- No not be attempted to tackle a list so long it overwhelms you – stick to the rule of 3 – 6 at a time.
We know that writing down goals makes a huge difference and you’ll have a significantly higher chance of achieving them and writing down your “to do” list is exactly the same principle.
So carve out 5 minutes at the end of each day and write down on paper, 3- 6 tasks you need to achieve the following day. No more than 6.
Then take 5 minutes to review the list in the morning and get to work. Don’t overthink it keep it simple and get it done. I’d recommend crossing out the task in a big black marker – the sense of achievement will motivate you to keep going.
I know there are literally thousands of apps and software to help you with your “to do” list but as one coaching client once confessed it’s all too easy just to change the deadline date!
It’s a well stated fact that we overestimate what we can achieve in a day and underestimate what we can achieve in a year and end up feeling frustrated and despondent – so set yourself up for success and write down your top 3 – 6 tasks for the day and build your confidence and your momentum of getting your tasks achieved.
It’s time to lower the bar during these times and to be kind to yourself!
Plan to focus on 3 goals per day, keep it simple and help yourself keep things in perspective!