![Why I Don't Use a To-do List - and What I Do Instead [Episode 130] - podcast episode cover](https://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/6/e/b/f/6ebff42868b9c643/podcastart2.jpg)
Episode description
Are you a to-do list person? I know they are popular tool for getting things done, but I don't use them. Why? I go into all the reasons in this week's episode along with what I do instead. The result? Clarity, major progress in a small amount of time, ability enjoy spending time my kids instead of feeling interrupted, and I'm able to "get it all" done and have a break. Have a listen today for a simple alternative to the ever growing to-do list!
Key Points: Pros of a To-do List: get everything out of your brain into one place. Cons of a To-do list:- Tells your brain you need to do all of it right now (possible exception - when you have a major deadline like moving and there is a lot to do right now)
- Creates unhealthy precedent that checking everything off your list is most important
- Not an end in sight. Easy to end the day looking at all that isn't accomplished with hopes of being faster/more efficient tomorrow
- Recipe for exhaustion and feeling like you are on a treadmill.
- Looking at all those things every time you need to do something is making a ton of micro decisions which leads to decision fatigue. It is real and has a huge impact on the rest of your day - even your child asking you a question.
- You don't get a real break
- Plan My weeks, not my days
- Start by choosing my big 3 for the week
- Break down into context based todos
- It is a finite list I make on Sunday in my weekly planning. I choose what is most important this week and some nice tos, and let the rest go
- When I have a moment, look at the context - just a handful of things so only making a few choices
- make massive progress in a small amount of time
- End the week usually checking off most everything - if not everything. Get a break and rest in my brain. No treadmill.
- Pick priorities again next week.