Long ago, people had to retain information in their mental memory bank. Then came the ability to write everything down for posterity. Now, many of us have a hard time keeping up with everything unless we write it down -- and for a good reason!
Do you find yourself taking notes on your phone or tablet? Do you keep a pad of sticky notes nearby? Writing things down frees up mental space in our brains, allowing new information to enter. That’s why we can accomplish more for work and in life.
Making a to-do list helps your company advance overall because it communicates goals. As a business owner, your team benefits from knowing what needs to be accomplished and when. As a team member, your individual productivity increases, and you have a better grasp of your contributions to the company.
1. Make an Effective To-Do List
A to-do list is your plan of action. Think of this process as holding yourself accountable for completing what you need to do. When you see your tasks written out, you’re more inclined to complete them.
You’ve probably thought to yourself, ‘there’s a million things to do and only 24 hours in a day to do it.’ A list will help organize and structure your priorities. Get things done effectively with these tips.
2. Assess Your Workload
Everything in the world, and then some, doesn’t have to make your list. Identify your most prominent projects and commitments. You want to see your tasks organized, but you don’t want to overwhelm your brain by having to size up a lengthy list.
3. Prioritize Your Priorities
What’s the most pressing assignment that needs to be completed? What’s the second most important? What can wait until later in the day to be completed or tomorrow, if need be?
4. Set Attainable Deadlines
Set a due date for your projects to streamline your process and set a timeframe for completing them.
Our Brains Like It When We Complete Tasks
Whether you consider yourself a planner or not, psychology studies suggest our minds love planning and completing things. Our brains can sense when something is left unfinished, and it doesn’t respond well to it. Hello, anxiety and stress.
When we “check things off our list” or complete them individually, our brain releases dopamine. We feel satisfaction when something’s done. Chemicals are at work! You’ll likely feel like you can take on the next task.
On a more conscious level, keeping a list of tasks to complete organizes our thoughts. It also helps you honor your commitments.
Making a to-do list can help you accomplish more in a day. When those items are checked off your list by the end of each day, look back at how much you’ve accomplished by the end of the week. That’s an amazing feat.
Want to learn more about digital marketing and how best to use it alongside other marketing efforts? Connect with J. E. Hill Digital Marketing on social media.
We specialize in content marketing for websites, social media marketing, and email marketing. Learn more about our services. And be sure to sign up for the newsletter, filled with tips to help you and your business!