5 Steps to Revamp Your To-Do List

Many people are overwhelmed by their to-do lists as random tasks pile up. This leads to stress, less productivity, overdue items and numerous empty checkboxes.

According to Entrepreneur, an effective to-do list must connect to your goals. Don’t just write down anything that crosses your mind; make sure that it matters to your business and aligns with your goal.

Remember that each task is unique, and everything isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Use your list as a work plan, not just a wish list — the tasks should all be achievable. Resist the urge to write down every “someday” idea.

Be specific and accurate when entering the details — if your brain must work to figure out the context, then you’re more likely to put it off or delay the task.

“Reforming your to-do list involves categorizing tasks based on goal support, time requirements and energy type, leading to prioritized daily action items,” says Entrepreneur. 

Try classifying the tasks by type and how long they will take. This will help you prioritize what deserves your time so that you’re more likely to complete the task. While “update website” and “work on strategic plan” may take long blocks of time and require deep focus, items like “order office supplies” or “respond to emails”can be executed more quickly. Make sure to group all these different levels of work.

First, write down every task, idea and project you can think of so that it’s all in one place. Then, look at your top three work-related goals and mark which of these items support these goals. Anything random shouldn’t receive top billing on your daily list.

Sort your tasks into three categories: directly supports current goals, essential but not aligned with current goals, and neither important nor aligned with goals. Delete or delegate any tasks in this last category. For those in the middle category, create a “future considerations” list and review it monthly.

The key, the article says, is to have 1-3 priority tasks that you must do each day. These will make a real difference in your work. Everything else should be on a separate “if there’s time” list. This helps you realistically manage your expectations. Completing 1-3 big daily goals will make you feel more accomplished than checking off other small tasks.

Here are some changes you can implement, via Entrepreneur, to fix your to-do list today.

1. Start with a brain dump.
2. Connect tasks to your larger goals.
3. Sort tasks by type and time.
4. List 1-3 daily priority tasks.
5. Write specific next steps for the tasks.