Are you a list maker? Oh boy, am I ever that person! I love being able to place a check mark beside that item and the feeling of something accomplished. I’m such an avid list maker I even have a system that goes beyond check marks..many times includes highlighters and all sorts of symbols! LOL.
I’ve always thought that lists made me more organized. I still believe that but I’ve also noticed a down side to list making. If you’re not careful, lists can enslave you.
I make lists for groceries, “chores” I don’t perform on a regular basis, planning family get-together’s, and large projects that require time and several tasks in order complete them. Although checking off an item on my lists gives me great satisfaction, I’ve notice that at times just looking at the list impacts my “feelings” and sense of peace. It kinda worries me at times. Just the fact that I have all this to do makes me feel overwhelmed. Do lists do this to you?
The pro’s about lists: 1. They keep you focused. 2. A list (if you’re good at this) can help you decide what is most important. 3. Lists helps organize your time. 4. A list can help you decide what action needs to be taken and in what order. 5. Lists provide a sense of accomplishment/achievement as you complete each item.
The con’s about lists: 1. They create a sense of “I must”, “I should” when that may not be the case. 2. A list can often leave you (in your mind) with no wiggle room. 3. Lists are confining. 4. A list can relegate your schedule and leave you frustrated at the pace you are accomplishing items on the list.
So, how do you use lists to your advantage and not become a slave to them? Here are my suggestions about how to be a “good list maker”!
1. Make sure that what you put on your list is really necessary.
2. Evaluate how much time and energy will be required for each item on your list.
3. Be flexible and allow yourself the freedom to alter the list or remove something all
together.
4. Realize that lists are simply reminders that keep us focused on important things that will
ultimately help us achieve daily successes.
5. Refuse to be a slave to your list. It’s your list; you can do with it what you want (and can cry if you want to) and that may include wadding it up and tossing it!!
6. If your list is stressing you, go back to #1. Then decide if you need to make an
action plan just for that item…set it aside on it’s own. You may need to address if anyone
else needs to be involved in bringing this about and if resources are needed that you don’t
have.
I’ve often found that when I’m stressed about a list, it’s not necessarily what is on the list or the length of the list. I find my stress is usually over one item that really needs to be labeled as a “project” and not an item on my list. Now mind you, that “project” will probably require a list of it’s own, but it really shouldn’t be on my short list.
Just remember, lists should be helpful not stressful. Be realistic about your time, schedule and resources. Bearing those things in mind when making your list and willing to be flexible, will help you make great lists that will aid you in your day to day successes. It’s all those daily achievements that when compounded, help us to live our best lives now! So make your list, but always check it twice!!!!
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