To Do Lists
I believe in to-do lists. They are a great way to be able to see everything that needs to be accomplished within a set period of time. Not only do I like to prioritize the tasks, but I also like to put what days of the week they need to be completed.
Hello Sara
I also believe in the importance of the list of things to do, we can organize and set priorities, it is important as it reduces tension and stress, I believe in the organization and its benefits, also the fact accomplish tasks on time and by decreasing the possibility of stress.
Maikel Garcia
Hi Sara
I believe also on the list of things to do, it is important, allows us to better organize, prioritize, often use the phone or schedule an agenda for each day and I write what I need to do each week, I do not always to set priorities on the agenda, if tasks are not many and we can handle, it is not necessary, but we must keep in mind which is the priority.
My to do lists always have the same first entry: Number1; Make a to do list. Easy one to cross off, but it speaks to the need of having a sense of accomplishment. To do lists help with that.
Sarah's method of creating "to-do lists" is very close to the method I utilize.
I usually complete and revise the list weekly. I also include Monday through Saturday at the bottom of the list to include repetitive tasks or place the tasks on the correct day they are due. It's another visual tool. It also helps alleviate stress with a long list of items and breaks them down.
As we enter a digital and paperless world, I have found some excellent online tools for doing to-do lists. I like using the Outlook calendar as a way of doing my to-do lists. I just print out a sheet for today's date and it has all my day laid out for me. There is even the ability to color code your entries. You have the added benefit of scheduling out your future tasks. However, this may be an advantage or a disadvantage, because you will have to accept the reality of disruptions and other unexpected changes. However, a little cutting and pasting can help here.
Glenn Hobbs
I believe the same. Giving yourself visual timelines or deadlines is a good way of knowing where your progress stands.
Jeffrey, So true, and I like your comment about to do lists being a working journal as opposed to being static. To do lists are living, breathing things. They are great tools that help us both track tasks and document our progress.
Dr. Melissa Read
I like to think to do lists are a working journal. It not only helps a person organize their day, but it also allows for some reflection as well. The lists are great for for visual learners and assists for the day's prioritization.
Kathy, So true. Some people make lists just for the satisfaction of being able to cross things off. It's wonderful when we have a good feeling of making progress.
Dr. Melissa Read
I also make to do lists. And not just here at work, but also at home. It keeps me focused and on task, and when I finally get to cross off the final task, the feeling of accomplishment is amazing!
Marilyn, Excellent to hear! I appreciate knowing that you are teaching your students some effective ways to manage time and stress. Sometimes we have to lead by example. Other times, we have to unpack those examples and help students understand how success is accomplished.
Dr. Melissa Read
I also like the to do lists. I have a coworker who constantly uses her to do list and helps keep me on track with mine!
I also think a to-do list can be a wonderful time management tool. I use lists on a daily and weekly basis and also encourage my students to use such lists. They can be an asset when setting priorities and assessing completed goals.
Sara:
This is a great way to keep everything prioritized, and can view what needs to be accomplished for a time period.
I honestly don't know what I would do without a daily "to-do" list. I know people that don't use them and I often wonder how they function.
I agree to do lists help ypu get organized and set priorities in order of importance.Even though I am guilty of not always using them and sometimes I get out of sequence.
Harriet, Sounds like a great plan! To do lists do take a little time investment but they are well worth it in the end. Do give them a try for a few weeks. At a guess, you will find you have a much easier time managing your priorities.
Dr. Melissa Read
I really try to perform using a to do list. It help my week run so much smoother.
Nicholas, This is wonderful to hear. It sounds like To Do lists have played an important role in your work life for many years. For many instructors, once they start using them it's hard to stop.
Dr. Melissa Read
