Keep on keeping on

Sample task lists

Every week I have a list of what needs to be done that week for work, as well as my personal life. I then use that list throughout the week to keep on target for my project deadlines. I add to it as needed, cross things off when they're done, and make notes to myself if something changes or needs to be updated.

I used to break my weekly lists into daily lists, as well, so I didn't end up at the end of the week with the whole list waiting for me. I don't do that anymore because it got frustrating if I didn't complete everything on the list for a given day.

By having a general weekly list instead of the daily lists, I'm able to look at my list at the end of the day and know that I still have time to keep working on the list. It helps me take on a "keep on keeping on" mentality rather than a "hurry up and get it done!" mentality. Either way, the tasks get crossed of my list, but one way is frantic and stressful while the other way is more relaxed and encouraging.

I'm the type of person who has to take things one step at a time. If I get too ahead of myself and get frustrated I end up falling behind where I need to be and get even less done. So I have to take it slow, one task at a time.

Whether you're looking at a long list of stuff to do at work, or you've got company coming so you need to clean your house, remember to take it one step at a time, cross one task off at a time, and focus only on what you have to do in the next moment. Just keep on keeping on, and it'll get done.