Last week’s blog post (New Year’s Resolutions and SMART goals) proved quite popular, so this post is a slight extension of that. Goals and To Do lists are closely linked, and can be a source of satisfaction or strife!
Someone suggested that adding a goal to your list that you know you will definitely complete can be a great motivational tool. I agree! No matter how small the item, putting a tick beside it can be very satisfying – and if it is something you enjoyed doing, double win! She suggested adding “drink a can of coke” to hers, as that is something she enjoys and knows she will do that week. What might yours be?
As I have said before, self care is important – just as important as other must-do tasks.
However, To Do lists can cause problems.
- Are there too many items on your list, so you feel overwhelmed? Try adding a note of how long each task will take you – you may find you have 23 tasks, but they only add up to about 2 hours’ work?
- Are you taking on too many tasks? If so, it might be worth looking at why – do you find it difficult to delegate?
- Do you have trouble getting started when confronted with a list? Perhaps you know you don’t have time to do everything. You might like to try arranging them differently – for example, in order of priority.
There are a number of apps and systems available online to help organise tasks, and plenty of discussion about how to make things better. A pen and pad by the side of the bed might give you a chance to relax if you know something is written down, so you don’t have to hold it in your mind while trying to get to sleep. A pretty set of stationery or a convenient app (especially for recurring tasks) might make things easier – choose what works for you!
Good luck!
If you feel overwhelmed, anxious or just don’t know where to start to make things better, I am here to help. Please contact me.