This is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Sharpie, but all opinions are my own. #pmedia #SharpieClearview http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV
Our family has one master calendar that is jam-packed with stuff from myself, my husband, and the kids. It’s nice to know when my husband has to stay late at work, when my son is going on a field trip or is off from school, and when I have an important coffee date meeting. All of these things can quickly get overwhelming at a glance, so each of us has an assigned highlighter color that I use to keep everything in order. While I love keeping the calendar together, what really keeps me in order on a regular basis is my to-do list. (It helps that it’s pretty) …
Because I’m a tad bit OCD when it comes to completing tasks, I highlight each item as I finish it. It’s actually a really great habit to be in because it gives a sense of accomplishment which keeps me motivated … and we all need a little motivation sometimes! I popped into Walgreens the other day and decided to run down the school supply aisle. I spotted these awesome new Sharpie Clearview highlighters, and HAD to buy them. How cool is it that you can actually see what you’re highlighting?! Love them!
Throughout the years I’ve accumulated a lot of tips for how to stay on task. Today, I want to share a few of my favorite, most helpful, to-do tips with you!
– First … and by far most important … is to set a timer for each task you’ve given yourself. Whether it’s a 5-minute job or one that’ll take you an hour, always set some sort of timer. If the project isn’t complete when the timer goes off – too bad! OK, I know that sounds harsh, but for real. You can always come back to it when the rest of your list is done.
– Make your list according to priority. Of course, the most important item should go at the top – with the least important at the bottom. That way you know the “must-get-done” items will be finished before the day is out!
– Focus on one task at a time. Moms are notorious for multi-tasking. I know … I do it all the time. But when you’re trying to complete your to-do list, it’s super important to focus on each individual job until your timer goes off (see note 1).
– Be realistic about the number of items you put on the list. If you know your Wednesday is packed full of after-school activities, don’t try to fit 25 items on your list. It’ll just frustrate you when they don’t get done! It’s better to have too few items on your list than too many.
– BONUS TIP: This one is really important … and I think a lot of moms tend to struggle with this. But to really tame your to-do list, you have to learn to say NO!
And … because you are so awesome, I’m offering you a FREE download of my to-do list!
shambray says
I love this! I am a HUGE supporter of timers. It honestly saves my life!
Sam says
Right?! It’s the greatest thing!
Jillian@Baby Doodah! (@jillianmack) says
Great posts! I love to-do lists and I’m slowly learning to trust my timer. I used to set it and then when it stopped, I’d ignore it. Whoops!!
I’m really glad I found your blog, looks like you have a lot i’d like to read. :-)
Sam says
Haha – I understand Jillian! I used to do that, too!
I’m glad to have you here!
Mums Take Five says
learn to say no…. still learning :) i have to use a to do list – always! thanks for sharing found you via the cookie puzzle pj party
Sam says
It’s a rough one!
threekidsandafish says
Love love this! Yeah, a free download! I am also a tad OCD so this download is perfect!
SAying hello from Whip It Up Wednesday!
Cathy
Sara says
I’m totally a list girl! I have post-it notes full of lists everywhere! There is definitely something motivating in being able to cross off something on the list, and then something so satisfying when the whole list is checked off! I love how organized your printable is though… I think I’m going to give it a try :)
Sam says
I hope it works well for you!
Heather Cooper says
Great tips, thanks!
Ashley @ 3 Little Greenwoods says
I adore lists and marking tasks off makes me so happy! Thanks so much for the printable!
My readers would love this! Please share on my Show-Licious Party {we are live now}!
~ Ashley
Sam says
Thanks for stopping by! I just joined the party!
bumblebreeblog says
Great information! Sometimes my To Do list totally wins. Its always good to be reminded of these techniques. Thanks for sharing!
Sam says
That’s a good way to put it! I hope this helps!
Laura Silva says
Thank you for all the helpful tips! And thank you for linking up to The Creative Exchange! I am featuring your post this week.
xo, Laura
Sam says
Thanks so much, Laura! :-)
Andrea @ This Pug Life says
As much as I love my phone reminders for appointments and things, I have gone back to paper list making for daily to-dos. The process of writing and crossing them off is much more satisfying.
Aimee - ItsOverflowing says
Such a great idea!!! Featuring you tomorrow. XO, Aimee
Sam says
Thanks so much!
Heather @ Southern State of Mind says
I totally struggle with “mommy brain” too! Love your list, and the gold stapler! :) Thanks for linking up to the Pretty Preppy Party! http://www.southernstateofmindblog.com/