Use a simple process to document and prioritize your daily activities. Your ‘to-do’ list should be written down on a notepad or inputted on your latest and greatest technology every evening or as the last task before leaving work. Do not wait until the morning to document your activities for the day. You need to hit the ground running in the morning – not wasting time by thinking of what to do first. Below are some helpful hints to effectively manage your ‘to-do’ list:
- Keep it next to you or in front of you throughout the day. Also, as you strategize (perhaps while waiting for your doctor’s appointment, etc.), write down notes things to do in the future.
- I prefer to write my tasks down on a pad of paper. If you use the same method, your tasks should be written in pen or pencil and all completed items should be crossed out with a black sharpie. It truly feels good to cross your tasks off using a marker.
- Prioritize your tasks and obligations.
- Don’t buy a fancy organizer. It’s a waste of money.
- Write down your work-related and personal tasks (i.e., do laundry, vacuum, etc.).
- The key to successful task management is adhering to a ‘to-do’ list 7 days a week. Even if all you do on Sunday is go to church with your family, wash the car and have a barbecue – write it down. Remain consistent. Eventually, your mind will be trained and it will not let you forget.
