A Talking-Points List
If you have an upcoming meeting or an important phone call, create a list of things you want to discuss, so you don't risk forgetting something.
Keep this list handy on your desk, so when things pop in your mind you can jot them down.
A Project List
When you are working on a project with others, create a project list that details tasks and assigns responsibilities.
This helps you avoid micro-managing.
A Pros and Cons List
When you are making an important decision, make a pros and cons list. This list makes you dig down deep.
It can also help to share this list with someone else or ask a friend or partner to help brainstorm more pros and cons. This list gives you the clarity you need to make good decisions.
A Long-Term Goals List
Even if you think its too big of a dream but its something you want, write it down anyway. When you write something down, studies say you'll be 33% more likely to do it because it sets an intention and puts a goal into motion.
A Specific Daily To-Do List
- You should only put things on a to-do list that you have time and resources to achieve.
- Big goals and projects should be broken down into actionable tasks.
- It helps to match the action with your productivity levels.
- If something doesn't get done, re-evaluate the task at the end of the day.
An Outsource List
- Look at everything on your to-do list and ask yourself, 'Am I the only person who can do this?
- Anything that can be given to someone else should be put on an outsource list.
- While outsourcing takes the extra time upfront to train someone else on the task, it saves you time later, which can be used to focus on things you do have to do.