Ahhh, the proverbial list. A list of lists, even. It’s fun isn’t it? Well, actually, if you’re using a list correctly, you can hammer through that list faster than Thor's Mjölnir through a glasshouse. Mmmm, Thor. Oh, sorry… The key? Prioritization.
A list of everything you “have to do” and a list of things you “really have to do” are very different. Take Santa, for instance. The best and most widely known proponent of the list. That sucker can deliver toys to kids all over the world. In ONE night. One. Yeah there’s time zones and that sick sled and reindeer but still. Pretty impressive.
Wanna know how he does it? He prioritizes. Good kids, receiving live gifts such as puppies and kittens, come first on the block. Then he works his way down from there. By the time he gets to the naughty kids and their coal? He’s just allocating elves to John Elway those things into the stockings (delegating!) and boom, off he goes. Prioritizing for the win.
Creation, Prioritization, and Execution!
Create the List
To start, create your list. There’s a literal ton of apps for lists these days but honestly, a great little notebook works just as well, too. And there’s something really invigorating about crossing things off the list. But pick your poison.
We have mention this add-on before, but we think its completely worth another mention here for obvious reasons, but Momentum Dash is one heck of a tool! In fact, most of our team uses Momentum!
The System
Then implement a system (speaking of which, we are AWESOME at this) so if you need some help, just contact us!
Here is a simple example of a prioritization breakdown. You may need to elaborate to meet your own business needs, but this framework applies to all task lists:
NOW: Um, do it NOW!
These may be time sensitive or have direct impact on your revenues.
LATER: Not the most important. Let it chill.
You should move to these any time that you complete the NOW for the day. These could vary in importance, so this might be one of those lists of lists!
DELEGATE: Pass the buck, baby!
Not every task needs to be handled by you personally. If you have a team member with the skillsets to accomplish the task, try to delegate. You'll empower your employee and show trust which will aid in productivity too!
BYE!: Bye, bye, bye! Delete it!
Sometime's items on you list are no longer needed through a strategy change or unknown circumstance. Doing a routine clean out of your list can help shorten it, which will make it seem much less daunting and stressful.
Hit 'Em Square On
Once you’ve ranked things, hit those most important things first. The big ones that loom there like a big oaf. Hit ‘em hard and get those done. The accomplishment you’ll feel when they’re done will power you through the next few bits on your list. Jet-propelled, even.
Donezo? Treat yourself!
(Thanks Tom Haverford!)
At the end of the day whatever didn’t get done? Move it to the top of the NOW list.
Don't sweat it and trust the process. When you hit the office the next day you’ll be golden and ready to rumble. Also, don’t forget the coffee.
Lists can be a great tool to keep you on task. Just remember to prioritize and you'll be set. And if you need a little moral support, you know where we're at. Give us a call.