A to-do list of to-do lists

Lists are not the best solution at the productivity and information management system level. For that, I use a Kanban system like Trello. Having a to-do list-driven work system can lead to overwhelm and stress as you never get to the end of it, and it allows you to bypass prioritisation and choose, at the moment, what you feel like doing next.

But I do find lists useful at the working surface to capture ideas or sub-tasks within a self-contained piece of work. My lists work like a visual capture of my working memory during a task. They can be a satisfying way to measure and complete progress. You can also enhance the play or intention of these sub-tasks by experimenting with some alternatives or take the concept further into other personal development aspects of your days.

When to Do List: Schedule and prioritise your tasks by the ideal time of day for them to be tackled. More on this here.
Want to Do List: Catalogue your desires and aspirations, big and small, that you hope to accomplish.
Whim to Do List: Capture those spontaneous ideas and tasks that strike your fancy at the moment.
Wish to Do List: Document the dreams and objectives you aim to become a reality.
Must Do List: Outline the non-negotiable tasks and responsibilities requiring immediate attention.
To Not Do List: Keep track of habits to break or tasks you're intentionally avoiding or shouldn't do. [Get ready for NOvember].
Crew to Do List: Organise tasks involving collaboration or delegation to other team members or family members.
Dare to Do List: Challenge yourself with tasks that push you out of your comfort zone and encourage growth.
Ta-da List: Celebrate your achievements with a running tally of completed tasks and conquered challenges.
For You to Do List: Delightful or necessary self-care activities.

The Practice

Lists might be a good way to introduce celebration and reward into your days. Like this, for example.

□ Get paper and a pen.
□ Start a to-do list.
□ Add items to the to-do list including items 1 & 2.
□ Check off any completed items on the to-do list.
□ Reward yourself when you've completed half of the list.

Written by Bruce Stanley on Mon, January 22, 2024

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