The Power of Lists

When things start to become overwhelming, the one thing I do, that I've always done, is make a list.  I checked on Google (THE best place for gathering intel -- even if you have to screen some of it!) and even though it is very old fashioned, making a list of things to be done helps your brain.  If you have a list in hand, you don't have to ponder over things or worse, over-think them.

Like grocery shopping.  If you have a list, you just grab the things on your list and go check out.  There's no wandering down an aisle and wondering "Do I have enough toilet paper?"  If it's on your list, the answer is no!  Because you already checked.  You can stop using your brain cells to formulate the answer to that question, and use them for something else.

Lately, I've begun to make lists for everything that needs doing.  When it comes to home ownership, you need a list of things that you do, or that need doing.  And if you're like me, you have it arranged by room.  Like when did you change the air filter last?  Or when was that plumber here to fix the leak?   You need this information to make an informed decision for the next time as well.  And lets face it ... I'm 60 now and don't remember things as well as I used to!

Even though I consider myself pretty tech-savvy, I know there are probably dozens of list making apps I could install on my phone.  But I don't.  I make two types of lists:  One type is a notebook so that I can list the things I did (like change the air filter) and then add the next time it needs to be done.  I also have a short to-do list that I jot on 3x5 cards so I can pop it into my pocket and check it during my work day --- or maybe it finds its way into my hands -- and reminds me there's something on it that really needs to be done, like "pick up toilet paper".  A real necessity, something you truly don't want to forget to do!!!  lol




Productivity goes up when you make yourself a list,
but more important, worry and stress are reduced!
And at this stage of my life, that's important,
along with making my life just a little bit simpler!