I liked using Post-it notes and when I finished each list I saved it. Pretty soon I had a small stack of completed lists. This came in handy whenever I felt unproductive – I’d just look at the growing stack of accomplishments and immediately get a boost of energy and keep going.
However, I prefer notebooks for their portability and their ability to display more information. So, I decided to transition away from using Post-it notes and write my mini to-do lists in a notebook instead.
The examples below are meant to display as two columns, but will shrink down to one column on a mobile device. If you are viewing this on your phone and like the one column format feel free to adopt it. I prefer using a full-size college-ruled notebook, but you might want to use something else.
If you like using Post-it notes please keep doing so. I still do. However, keep in mind that a notebook gives you an easier way to track your progress over time – it is much better at conveying history and context.
Notebook – Standard Format
Item 2
Item 3
As you can see, a title (optional) has been added along with two columns – the first for the day/date and the second for groups or clusters of three items.
This is a notebook with three newly added items. Most full size notebooks will give you room for seven or eight mini to-do lists per page.
Notebook – Alternative Format
This format will save space in your notebook. Unfortunately, it will also become a bit “ragged” looking over time. I use it when working on narrowly-defined projects.
Notebook – Example
Go for Walk
Do Laundry
Pow!Science!
Change Favicon
Go Shopping
Pay Insurance
Rake Leaves
As you can see, there are several mini to-do lists on the page and the circle stands out as a reminder that a long-term project is underway.
With Easy Productivity you are under no obligation to complete a circled item – it is just there for reference. However, when you ask yourself, “What are the next three things I am going to do?” you may end up adding it to a new list.
For clarity you can leave a blank line between each group of three items.
The Challenge – Step by Step
1. Take a few slow, deep breaths to clear your mind.
2. Ask yourself, “What are the next three things that I am going to do?”
3. Write those three things down on a Post-it note or in a notebook.
4. Start working on one of them immediately.
5. Do everything you can to complete all three.
6. Mark each item accordingly.
7. Repeat.
Has Easy Productivity helped you accomplish anything? If so, how about paying something for the course and encouraging the creation of more lessons?
Questions? Comments?