The To-Do List Trap
It’s easy to get caught up in the endless cycle of “to-do lists,” especially around the holidays. We think that once we cross everything off our list, we’ll finally be able to relax and enjoy the end of the year. How often do we catch ourselves saying, “I just need to get through this project, and then work will slow down,” or “I’ll be happy when…”? In reality, ease doesn’t happen when we finish everything on our list. It simply gets replaced with something else.
From To-Do Lists to To Don’t Lists
Instead of focusing on everything we think we must do, perhaps it’s time to consider everything we’re doing that we don’t need to continue. Take a few minutes to review everything on your current to-do list and decide if it really needs to be done now and by you.
*Trash, Transfer, Trim, Treasure model by Mike Michalowicz
A Little Self-Reflection Goes a Long Way
The next time you feel overwhelmed by your to-do list, take a step back and evaluate what needs to be done in this moment and phase of your life. Priorities change at work and home, so try this exercise for all aspects of your busy life. The first time I did it for my personal life, I realized that my children were old enough to do their own laundry. Game changer!
Once you try the exercise, let me know what you decide to Trash, Transfer, Trim, or Treasure. Know a colleague or friend who could benefit from these insights? Share our newsletter!
