Two Important Lists

I am completely motivated by a to-do list! I love to plan my day with a list of tasks and at the end of the day, I feel productive when I see each task checked off. Sometimes, if I complete an extra task not on my list, I will write it down, just so I can check it off! (It is embarrassing to admit this.)

I have made to-do lists since I was a teenager. I don’t remember how I learned the skill but once I realized how much it helped me, making this list became a lifelong habit. Now, I understand all the benefits of creating a to-do list, so it continues to be part of my morning routine.

The first benefit is that by writing down everything I need to do for the day, I can clear my head and put it on paper. When I see the tasks written down, for some reason, they do not appear to be so difficult or overwhelming. I can focus on one thing at a time.

A second benefit of a to-do list is to help me stay focused. This list is sort of like having a plan for the day. I work from task to task, whether they are big or small, and usually in an order of priority. The focus motivates me because I know that I can relax or do something fun when I finish my list.

Finally, a completed to-do list makes me feel productive and gives me a sense of accomplishment. I know I have moved my life forward by finishing the tasks I planned for the day. I do not put more to-do items than are reasonable for me to finish that day.

I should clarify an important point. Just because a task is written on a to-do list does not mean that these are tasks I do not enjoy doing. I love my work so most of my to-do list includes things I want to do. For example, writing this blog was on my list this morning! So was repot a plant, as well as change my bedsheets. Later, I will give my dog a bath!  Of course, sometimes I have to pay my taxes or update my budget.

I hope I have inspired you to start making a to-do list each day, but now I would like to explain a DONE list.

My daughter and I like to keep a paper planner. We use stickers and colorful markers to decorate the pages, and we get together periodically to update our calendars. During one of these sessions, I noticed a list my daughter had in her planner. Listed on the paper were the twelve months of the year and under the name of the month, she wrote what she had accomplished during that month.

What a brilliant idea?! I call it a DONE list and now this has also become a habit for the last three years.  At the end of the year, it is a nice reminder to see so many things that were accomplished. If I finish reading a book, redecorate a room, go on a trip, learn a new skill, take a class, create something, or whatever I finish, I write it under that month.  It feels so good to see on December 31 (or whenever you look at it), all the things that happened during the year.

Your “done” list can be written in a notebook or journal, typed on a note in your phone, or put on a page in your planner. It is so rewarding to look at the year-at-a-glance and realize all that was accomplished!

Make your daily to-do list and keep track of your done list! Remind yourself that each task you complete helps you to reach your goals and moves your life forward in incredible ways!