The Power of a List
You can’t beat a good old list, read on for why (especially nowadays) and my favourites types of list.
I’m currently reading “The Checklist Manifesto: How to get things right” by Atul Gawande (as well as 3 other books oops…) and it’s reminded me of the power of a good list.
Atul Gawande is not only a bestselling author, he is also a Harvard professor and general and endocrine surgeon. Much of the book focuses on highly complex professions and situations from the medical world to structural engineering and investment banking.
This is not the everyday for most of us. However the truth is that our every day as business owners and leaders is highly complex too. From people challenges, societal and political uncertainties, financial concerns and multiple projects before we even begin to consider home life, self care, hobbies and friendships!
It can all be a lot.
Added to this the modern world is constantly fighting for our attention, it’s no wonder that so many tell me how overwhelmed they feel and how difficult it is to remain in the present.
This is where I believe in the power of a humble to do list. A to do list can help:
ensure nothing is missed
prioritise tasks rather than productively procrastinating
break down projects into time specific action steps
maintain focus
build momentum
reduce stress and overwhelm
reduce decision fatigue and maintain energy
increase effectiveness
and tons more…you get the idea. This list is getting excessive!
A few other lists that I love and would definitely recommend even if just for a short time to increase confidence are:
Stuff I want to do - Bucket list. It’s important to have ideas of what you want to achieve or do in your life, we spend so much of it reacting or going through the every day. Why not inspire yourself?
Stuff I did well / I’m good at - Brag list. Keeping a list of feedback from others or projects that have gone well is a great resource to keep that imposter and those self limiting beliefs away.
Stuff I’m thankful for - Gratitude list. Taking a few moments each day to reflect with gratitude really helped my confidence and presence. It also hugely reduced comparing with others and overthinking.
Stuff that makes me feel better - Self care list. I talk about this a lot when delivering wellbeing talks. Understanding your behaviours when you’re struggling and those that help you feel better is a great way to proactively support yourself. For me Netflix and no dinner = struggling, Hike helps me feel better.
Stuff I need - Shopping list :D. Very simple I know but if you’re anything like me deciding what to have for dinner each evening can be a pain in the ass. Shopping lists help me to plan (and sometimes batch cook) for the week.
What are your favourite lists? Share your best list tips (even if it is a top 10 from Buzzfeed)
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