How to Make an Effective To-Do List

Sometimes, I’m completely on it. Tasks are done ahead of time with ease and efficiency. Other times, I struggle. I can’t seem to get out of the spiral of missed deadlines and overlooked to-dos. Oftentimes, the differentiator is whether or not I have a to-do list. Simply writing things down is the difference between project completion and missing the mark. If you’re already in the habit of list-making (or are ready to start!), here are 7 tips to move your to-dos to to-dones.

Keep the list on your person, or have several lists in the places where you spend most of your time.

Multiple times a day, things crop up and I think “Let me add that to my list”, but if I’m unable to add to my list in real time, I find myself asking, “What is it I need to add to the list again?”

Add to your list as things crop up.

The purpose of a list is to help us remember. If you’re like me and become easily distracted, write down your to-dos as soon as they pop into your brain before they pop out.

Do the hardest task first.

Generally, I want to do the easiest things first. This is one of my favorite procrastination tactics, which means my bigger projects get pushed and pushed right up to a deadline or passed it. Give yourself a stern talking to and get that bigger task out of the way.

Add a due date.

If you don’t have a deadline, tomorrow can easily become next week, next week, and maybe even next year. Be your own accountability partner. Use your to-do list as a space to note what needs to get done and when.

Break it down.

Big projects can feel overwhelming before they’ve even begun. If you have a huge to-do on your list, parse it out into smaller more approachable tasks and keep momentum moving toward your goals.

Harmonize your lists.

I often write on whatever scrap of paper is closest to me when I need to take note. If you have more than one to-do list, make sure you have a time and place to cross reference and consolidate.

Celebrate!

Whether it’s a sweet treat or a walk around the block. When you’ve checked something off your list, treat yourself! You’ve earned it!