Today, I talked with a fellow organizational management geek. Or rather, I rambled, the words sometimes tumbling over themselves. I was high from completing a bunch of tasks that I'd had to sideline over a series of weeks. He asked me whether I make to-do lists. Do I make to-do lists?? Or do I make checklists? Of course: I make to-do lists and checklists!
I make lists over lists every day, each with the assiduous hierarchy usually reserved for outlining essays in English Composition. There are bullet points, checkboxes and subsets. I make lists at work, I make lists at home, and if my entire life's goals could be summed up, there would be a checklist followed by a to-do list.
A long time ago, I did a presentation on organizing, and in it I discussed the psychology behind checklists. I don't remember all the details, but there was some dopamine involved. And the more you list, the more you can harness the power of dopamine!
My management-friend posited that a checklist is a conscience. He felt that making a list was like making a promise to yourself, something stated or carved with pencil on paper - something tangible and achievable. These days, we know that SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely) goals are the kind of goals that are bound for glory. But what about the simple things that have to be done around the house?
For me, lists aren't just reserved for accomplishing work, I make it a point to include items of leisure and creativity! By putting my priorities on paper, I am able to visualize the path ahead and make adjustments along the way. I never berate myself for the things that aren't accomplished - that's akin to self-mutiny. I know perfectly well that the items that are left un-done will have a second (or third) chance tomorrow. And if any item persists being listed but not checked, then I would have to seriously question whether it needs to be done at all. Sometimes, the lists contains items that I categorically don't want to do, but that is rare. Usually, the list stretches long with items that will 1) make my life simpler or better or 2) make someone else's life simpler or better. When you plan your days, what more noble goals can there possibly be?
In my mind, the perfect weekend starts with a steaming cup of English Breakfast tea, a to-do list, and two wide open days to accomplish them. Bliss? Check!
