The list factor

So I think I have had a huge breakthrough in efficiency and organization here!

Making lists! But not just any list. What I do is after I'm done work or before I start work for the day, I write down the 4 or 5 major things I need to get done that day.

Then, I go about doing the list, one at a time, until each item is done. I do not check email or answer phone or deal with anything else until an item is done. In between items I may check email/VM, but if there is anything that I need to do because of checking it, let's say an update to another clients site, I add it to a second column list for the day.

Then, after doing my initial list (column 1) if I have time, I start on column 2, otherwise, column two moves to the next day!

This has had the effect of making me focus on one thing at a time... something I have trouble with.. instead of jumping to any task as soon as a client or anyone asks me to, no matter what I was doing.

And

It's had the effect of making me feel productive, because checking something off the list is highly satisfying.

The key is to only put 4-5 major items on the list. Usually I"m done my list by early afternoon! Then I either continue working on column two, or, I take the rest of the day to do personal stuff, clean the house, whatever. .. and I dont' feel bad for doing it because I feel I accomplished my days major work tasks!!

Voila! The simple list !! I think it never worked for me much before because my lists were pages long.

Now I keep it shortl.. 4-5 items per day.

Until next time!

Sarvy