How to Write a Great To-Do List

If hours slip away and days don’t create the results you want, you might want to start making more lists. 

Annie Dillard says that schedules are like nets for catching days. To me, lists are like nets for catching goals. They’ll make a run for it if you don’t pin them down on a list and get to work. 

Two things are very important when you make a good list. First, verbs. You should start every item on your list with a verb. “Website copy” is a big, scary idea when it’s written like that. But I’ll have no problem with, “Write 5 ideas for homepage headline.” Anyone can do that. 

The second important thing is simplicity. On days when my confidence is really low, I’ll put even the most basic stuff on my list. “Open laptop, launch email, read 5 emails, respond to 5 emails.” The momentum of crossing off basic things (like opening my laptop) can often lead to success in more difficult things (like responding to big emails).

Next time you write a to-do list, start every line with a verb, and break down every job into as small tasks as possible.

Good luck out there!