LeadingMinds Tip 151: A bit of a 'to-do'

This week's LeadingMinds Tip comes to you from Steve Marriott of Kaizen Training, and was inspired by an idea from Catherine Smith of Continuum Group.

I'm regularly asked for advice on how busy people can manage their time more effectively.  Every week another 'tool' seems to appear to help us in our quest.  I'm constantly on the lookout for that special something which moves beyond simply a tool or a technique - and transforms the way people approach time management, and work-life balance.  I love this idea from Catherine - both for its simplicity and for the transformational effect it had upon the group I was working with at Continuum...

The Stalwart of Time Management - the "To-Do List"

Like many, I benefit from simply recording my tasks for the day/week/month AND often feel frustrated that my lists just never seem to get any shorter!  Every time I review them, I always find even more tasks to add.  There's just always more to do.

On a recent workshop, the group were exploring various methods to manage their time better.  The group discussed the benefits of listing - but then the old chestnut surfaced again:

• "I have lists of lists!"
• "I sometimes spend more time writing my next list than I afford"
• "My list just never seems to get any smaller"

I'd introduced a technique called "Headlining" which is a great way of prioritising.  Each day I write a virtual headline such as:

• "Steve finishes tip!"
• "Steve clears e-mail inbox" or
• "Steve writes next chapter of book"

This really helps me to focus my efforts. 

Catherine then coined the idea of "To Finish" lists.  Rather than dwelling on the endless stream of new tasks, she decided to list only the one, two or three things she absolutely must complete today.  Anything else would be a bonus.  We all enjoy the sense of closure when a task is finished so why not use this motivation more consciously?

Aside from the obvious benefit of its simplicity and focus, this idea will also help Catherine to enjoy a healthy dose of dopamine and serotonin (feel-good chemicals) each time she finishes an item on her list.

Catherine - consider your idea well and truly nicked and shared!

Call to Action:

Next time you reach for the "To-Do List", why not convert it to a "To Finish List" - and notice the difference?

We've been coaching successful people on better ways to manage their time and work-life balance for over 20 years.  If you have any nuggets of wisdom you'd like to share with us - or get more advice from the experts - you can get in touch with us at tips@kaizen-training.com

Or why not leave a comment on the KaizenBlog  www.kaizentraining.wordpress.com