If you’re a keen list-maker, you can skip this Rule. It will all be obvious to you, because it’s here for people who don’t make lists (yet). So what’s wrong with making a list? What stops you? There are two main reasons people give me – either that it’s a waste of time because you can work it out as you go along, or that a long list is too daunting.
So let’s start with the first of those. It doesn’t matter how well you think you can multi-task, it’s always more time-efficient to do one thing at a time until it’s finished, and then move on to the next. And the best frame of mind for planning and thinking is not the same as the one you need for doing. Indeed different tasks on your list may require their own approach, which is why it makes sense to deal with all your emails at the same time, or to do all the laundry at once.
It’s actually quicker to think through all the things you need to do, and write them down, while your mind is in organised thinking mode. You’ll remember more of them, and in that frame of mind you’ll also be able to organise them into efficient groups as you go. So for example, you’ll list all the things you need to do while you’re out, rather than getting back and realising that you forgot something. Of course something may come to you later, and you can obviously add it to the list, but there will be far fewer accidental omissions, because you started by focusing on the list itself.
Once your list is written you can switch into doing mode and stop trying to hold in your head the things you need to do, because they’re all down on your list. So you can get on with the task with a clearer head, which means you can do it faster and better. The key thing here is that you have actually saved time in the long run by sitting down to write a list before starting. Both because you’ve streamlined your mental approach and because you’ve got more of the tasks right first time.
I’m glad we’ve got that sorted. Now, in terms of a long list being daunting … yes it can be, so why have a long list? What you need is several short lists. A long list with subheadings if you like, but feel free to put them on separate bits of paper if that helps. Suppose you’re preparing for a big trip abroad. You could have a list of things you need to buy, a list of admin you need to deal with, a list of things to pack, and so on. Lots of manageable lists. And – if you don’t enjoy making lists – just remind yourself how much less daunting that is than arriving at the airport to find you left your passport at home (we all know someone who’s done it).
A relative of mine always said that a good list should start with the following items:
That way you’ll have the first three tasks ticked off in no time and you’ll feel you’re making real headway.
THE BEST FRAME OF MIND FOR PLANNING AND THINKING IS NOT THE SAME AS THE ONE YOU NEED FOR DOING