How’s your to do list doing? Do you even write one? Or do you use an app?  I have returned to writing out my items. Last month two things fell through the cracks because they weren’t in the front line of my memory. When I create a game plan, I do more—maybe not all chores, but important ones for certain

Psychological Benefits of a To Do List

Dr. Art Markman at FastCompany.com in “How Writing To-Do Lists Helps Your Brain (Whether Or Not You Finish Them” tells how the common to do list is an important productivity tool. And, guess what? It’s not about crossing things off the agenda. Dr. Markham suggests that the process of putting together a list is useful.

How Writing To-Do Lists Helps Your Brain (Whether Or Not You Finish Them)

For a long time, I resisted to-do lists. I felt that if I kept a list, it would tie me down to a particular set of tasks. The busier my work life became, the more crucial it was to have some sort of running agenda on hand. Read more…

 

My Notes

Here are my take away’s from Dr. Markman’s article:

• Reflecting about what you need to carry out and writing helps your and remember tasks
• Splitting “abstract goals into concrete work” gives you a roadmap
• Putting things from your list on your calendar gives you an idea of what needs prioritization
• Recording your jobs can assist you determine what is interfering with your productivity

I’ve set aside the best for last. Don’t be remorseful when you look at your list and see several unchecked items. You’ve gained a lot from organizing a to-do list. And, these benefits may be more important than checking something as carried out.

To-do lists get a lot of flack, but the simple act of planning has some psychological and productivity benefits all by itself.