As a busy woman I’m sure you have a lengthy to-do list. Who doesn’t, right? The task of writing down everything you want to accomplish in one day, one week or one month can be daunting.
So why do it? You may be wondering if I’ve lost my marbles when I tell you to say good-bye to your to do lists, but I assure you I haven’t!
The typical to-do list usually consists of many unrealistic items. If you find yourself writing items that will take more than an hour to complete, don’t add them to the never-ending to-do list.
Instead of a daily, weekly or monthly to-do list consider incorporating a target list instead. What’s the difference you may be asking?
The difference between a to-do list and a target list is the amount of items included. When creating your target list keep these important points in mind:
- Prioritize your list
- Add only 3 to 5 items
- Include realistic and attainable projects
- Projects that take no more than an hour to accomplish!
Too often we will be motivated to add items such as cleaning out the garage, painting the bedroom, or making dinner for the entire week. These are huge items and if you have help they can be easily attained; however, if you are attempting to do these on your own, you must step back.
First, you must give yourself permission to not complete the target list. It is perfectly acceptable to complete just one or two items. Believe me, no one is keeping score on whether you complete your tasks or not.
Giving yourself permission will reduce stress. Celebrate each accomplishment with a little dance, yes you are allowed to celebrate!
So, would you rather have a lengthy to-do list that is unrealistic and truly unattainable? Or, would you rather incorporate a target list with 3 to 5 items that can be realistically accomplished?
Come on ladies, it’s time to say good-bye to those never ending to-do lists and incorporate a target list instead. You can do it! What task do you find most difficult to accomplish during the day?
Want more tips from Dr. Mommy? Check out her book “Letting Go of Supermom” which includes time-management and organization tips, how-tos for handling stress, nutrition and general wellness advice, parenting and relationship tools, and ways to stay spiritually refreshed and highly productive without losing it!
