Even with the best intentions, a ‘to do’ list can become a gathering place for all things – including those we have the best intention of checking off our list. If, however, your ‘to do’ list gets too long, you’ll soon feel overwhelmed and stuck in neutral.
Are you feeling that way at this very moment? If so, stop what you’re doing and take 10 minutes to declutter your task list by asking “Where does this belong?”
- Do it – This is a good action to take for all tasks that take less than 2 minutes to complete
- Delegate it – If you can’t delegate the entire task, is there part of the task that could be delegated that would keep you moving to it’s completion?
- Dump it – Let’s face it. Many a task that seemed so important when placed on the list tarnishing with time. If it’s really no longer a priority – or in alignment with your goals – it may be time to get it off your list completely.
- Deposit it – I really want to say “file” but it doesn’t rhyme with the other actions. Whether it’s a file or a drawer or your calendar, if its important enough of a task to remain on your “to do” list, put it where it will get done.
Remember the quote from William James , “Nothing [is] so fatiguing as the eternal hanging on of an uncompleted task.” <Sigh>
What have you found helpful in keeping your “to do” list manageable?
