9 simple checklists to help you be more productive

1. List of "not to do"

The method is described in Donald Rosa's “Don't Do It. Time management for creative people”. It helps to catch the main thing and understand which things are really important and which ones can be postponed. All tasks need to be divided into three lists: to-do, completed to-do, and not to-do.

The peculiarity is that only three items can be added to the first column - those that you consider the most important or urgent. The rest of the activities are temporarily on the non-to-do list.

The completed task from the first column needs to be moved to the list of completed tasks. And then there will be space in the to-do list for a new task, which can be moved there from the third group.

2. Running list

It allows you to visually see all the tasks, plans and goals that you set for yourself for the week on one spread of the diary. The method is mainly used by owners of Bullet Journal, but any notepad (preferably in a box) is suitable for a running list.

You need to divide the page into two columns. On one there will be days of the week, on the other - business. At the intersection of the task and the day of the week on which it needs to be completed, you draw an empty square. If the job is done, the cell needs to be shaded.

If you have rescheduled the task, draw an arrow in the square, and then draw a new empty square on the corresponding date. The task that you no longer plan to perform is marked with a cross. When the task is not completed completely, shade half of the cell.

As a rule, the running list itself takes one page for a week. The second can be used to write down goals for the next seven days or draw a habit tracker. More details are shown in the video.

3. List of goals for 90 days

Some personal effectiveness and productivity experts believe that goals should be set for exactly three months, and not for a year, as many do. This way you have a better chance of staying motivated and getting what you want.

Make a detailed plan for the next 90 days and keep this list handy so you don't forget what matters to you, where you are going and what you want to achieve.

4. List of dreams

Even the most insane and, at first glance, unrealizable. First, it will help you listen to yourself and better understand your real wants and needs. Secondly, after a few years you will look at this list and see that dreams come true, no-no, and sometimes in the most unexpected way. And this is very inspiring.

5. List of mantras

This is, of course, not about Indian mantras, but rather about mottos or affirmations - phrases that inspire and support you. For example, "I am doing exactly as much as I can and as good as I can at the moment." Or “I might fail, but that's not a reason not to try. In any case, I will draw a valuable experience from this story."

You can also add inspirational quotes from books or movies, and in general any thoughts that help you move forward and feel better. It will be useful to look at such a list, especially if you are depressed and have lost motivation.

6. List of things done

Usually we just cross out completed cases and forget about them. Or you can collect them in a separate list. This way you will see how much you are actually doing and be filled with motivation for new achievements.

You can also keep a list of books you have read, movies watched, events you have attended, countries you have traveled, and so on.

7. List of deadlines

As a rule, we put down deadlines when we write down goals or objectives. But you can additionally make a list of all cases that have deadlines, and in chronological order. It will definitely help you not to forget about anything and correctly distribute the load.

This list is mainly useful for those who keep notebooks and diaries on paper. Because for fans of electronic planners, the calendar will remind you of all the important things.

8. Acknowledgment list

Just list all the events, things and achievements for which you are grateful to yourself, relatives, colleagues and acquaintances, a fortunate coincidence. And don't forget to add to this list. Studies say that practicing gratitude increases our levels of happiness, makes us more optimistic, active and motivated.

9. List of things that make you happy

They also help to recuperate and cope with stress. This list can be used to take care of yourself during difficult times. It can include sports, relaxation, massage, meditation, delicious food, books and TV shows, writing practices, spa treatments, or anything else to make you really happy. Keep the list handy, and if you're having a tough day, choose an activity that will help you relax and feel better.