Electronic TD Lists
I've always used a To Do list to manage my time. My downfall sometimes was taking the time to rewrite the list, and possibly reprioritize. Since I work at my computer most of the day, I decided to convert my TD List to a Word document. I keep that document open but minimized. When I complete a task it's easy to simply click on it, erase the completed task, and see what the next one is. This obviates the need to stop and rewrite the list.
I also keep a modicum of a calendar in a second section of my TD list. Important events, which are usually associated with a task or some action on my part, are kept in chronological order. As these dates move closer it's easy to simply move them up into my TD list. Of course I keep a more detailed calendar in the normal fashion, but this method keeps my calendar synchronized with my TD list.
I also use the Task function in Outlook, however I have not used the prioritizing functions. I have also tended to put things in there that were just general notes rather that true "To Do" items. I see from this that if I limit the to do list to actual tasks I need to do, and I move the other things to the "Notes" section, I will have a better tool for keeping myself on track.
I also use the Task function in Outlook, however I have not used the prioritizing functions. I have also tended to put things in there that were just general notes rather that true "To Do" items. I see from this that if I limit the to do list to actual tasks I need to do, and I move the other things to the "Notes" section, I will have a better tool for keeping myself on track.
Outlook Tasks is great because you don't have to write your lists over and over. I also like the way you can setup recurring tasks. That's handy.
I used paper and pencil to keep my "To Do" lists until last year when some introduced me to the "Tasks" function on Microsoft Outlook. I can put it in order of importance, I can change that at anytime without having to re-type or re-write. I can also put a finsh by date on it and any notes that I might need to put with it. I still go back to paper and pen for quick personal things, otherwise it does work very well for me.
To me, that all sounds too complicated. I like the sense of independence that comes from knowing I can function without all the gadgetry! I have a 2-year pocket sized calendar that I check every evening before going to bed. I never have to worry about my schedule, even in thunderstorms when I'd better leave the computer off. I like that! KISS (Keep it simple) is a fine rule in my book!
