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

by Damon Zahariades

Sometimes, all you need is the right word to spur you to action. Verbs have that power. Put them in front of your to-do items and you’ll be more inclined to get the items done.

Not just any verb will do. There’s an art to choosing the right ones. The key is to be specific.

The right verbs encourage execution. They encourage you to take action.

Step 10: Note Which Tasks Require Input From Others

It’s important to know, at a glance, which items on your task list require action from other people.

Here’s my recommendation: write a short note next to each to-do item for which you’re waiting for someone’s input. Detail the type of input you need, its format (email, phone call, report, spreadsheet, etc.), and the date you expect it to be delivered.

How To Maintain A Well-Oiled To-Do List System

Tip #1: Keep A “Tiny Task” Batch List

The purpose of a batch list is to organize all of your tiny tasks in one place. Tiny tasks are items that take less than 10 minutes to complete. The idea is to batch them together and address them during a single work session.

place them on a separate batch list. When you have extra time, choose a few to work on. Cross the items off your list as you complete them.

The solution is simple. Batch these tiny tasks together. Set aside 30 to 45 minutes to work on them. This will allow you to focus on the items, one by one, without distracting you from your important work. You’ll have set aside a separate work session to address them.