TL;DR
A reader asked Kathi how to stop her to-do list from growing out of control. Keep every task and note in one planner or electronic organizer instead of on sticky notes, number each item in order of priority, slash the number when the task is done, and plan your errands so you never run them on impulse.
Kathi,
I can’t seem to keep track of my “to do” list. It keeps growing and I feel like I never know which task to tackle first. How can I organize my lists to help manage my priorities?
Tanya, Encinitas
Tanya,
For starters, record all tasks and related notes in your day planner or electronic organizer. Keep this planner/organizer handy to add tasks quickly. Forget about sticky notes.
Keeping all to-do items in the same place makes retrieving the information easy and quick. No task will get lost and more will get done.
When writing notes, keep a space cleared on the left for priority numbering. Organize your tasks by writing numbers to the left of each item in the order of priority. These numbers will keep you focused on what you wish to accomplish first. After completing the task, draw a slash through the number and move on to the next priority.
To accomplish more each day, never do errands on impulse. Plan your routes carefully, handling as many errands as possible each time. Hopefully with these tips you’ll find yourself making more slashes to your list than additions.
Kathi is a professional organizer, image consultant and event planner based in San Diego California.
Please submit your questions to: [email protected]. San Diego Professional Organizer
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- Want to Become More Productive and Create More Hours in Your Day?Why you should plan your day before you open your inbox.
Frequently asked questions
How do I organize a to-do list that keeps growing?
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Record every task and related note in one place, such as a day planner or electronic organizer, and keep it handy so you can add tasks quickly. Skip the sticky notes. When all your to-do items live in the same spot, no task gets lost and more gets done.
How should I prioritize the tasks on my list?
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Leave a space on the left side of your list and number each task in the order you want to tackle it. The numbers keep you focused on what matters first. When you finish a task, draw a slash through its number and move on to the next one.
How can I get more done each day?
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Never run errands on impulse. Plan your routes carefully and handle as many errands as possible on each trip. Combined with one numbered list, this habit means you will find yourself making more slashes on your list than additions.
