To-Do List Formula: A Stress-Free Guide To Creating To-Do Lists That Work!

by Damon Zahariades

If you struggle with being consistent, I recommend you use the “Jerry Seinfeld” strategy. Here’s how it works (I’ll explain its history in a moment): First, learn the 10 steps to creating an effective to-do list system. (These steps were explained in detail in the section titled How To Create The Perfect To-Do List.) Second, memorize the eight tips for ensuring your system runs smoothly over the long run. (These eight tips are found in the current section titled How to Maintain A Well-Oiled To-Do List System.) Third, buy a wall calendar that displays the entire year on a single sheet. Also, buy a red pen. Lastly, apply the steps and tips you’ve learned to your master list, context-based lists, and daily to-do lists each day. After you’ve successfully done so, cross the day off with the red pen. Seinfeld used this strategy when he was on the comedy club circuit. He would write jokes each day, crossing the day off on his calendar. The red “X” marks eventually formed a chain, which he made certain to never break. Seinfeld credited this “chain” strategy, which encouraged him to write consistently, to becoming a skilled comedian.