Why I Don't Use a To-do List - and What I Do Instead [Episode 130]

Are you a to-do list person? I know they are popular tool for getting things done, but I don't use them. Why? I go into all the reasons in this week's episode along with what I do instead. The result? Clarity, major progress in a small amount of time, ability enjoy spending time my kids instead of feeling interrupted, and I'm able to "get it all" done and have a break. Have a listen today for a simple alternative to the ever growing to-do list! Key Points: Pros of a To-do List: get everything out of your brain into one place.  Cons of a To-do list: Tells your brain you need to do all of it right now (possible exception - when you have a major deadline like moving and there is a lot to do right now) Creates unhealthy precedent that checking everything off your list is most important Not an end in sight. Easy to end the day looking at all that isn't accomplished with hopes of being faster/more efficient tomorrow Recipe for exhaustion and feeling like you are on a treadmill.  Looking at all those things every time you need to do something is making a ton of micro decisions which leads to decision fatigue. It is real and has a huge impact on the rest of your day - even your child asking you a question. You don't get a real break   What I do instead: Plan My weeks, not my days Start by choosing my big 3 for the week Break down into context based todos It is a finite list I make on Sunday in my weekly planning. I choose what is most important this week and some nice tos, and let the rest go When I have a moment, look at the context - just a handful of things so only making a few choices make massive progress in a small amount of time End the week usually checking off most everything - if not everything. Get a break and rest in my brain. No treadmill. Pick priorities again next week.