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What Is a List?
A list is a document containing the list of items to be bought, tasks to be accomplished, price list, etc. The items enlisted are arranged according to their category or arranged according to their importance. Grocery/shopping lists, checklist/to-do lists, price lists, contact lists, class lists, and attendance lists; there are the commonly used variations of records. Listings are references to guide the person using them.
Humans, innately, have a short attention span. When bombarded with tasks at hand, it's advisable to break them down into small pieces. Upon checking each item off the list, our brain releases dopamine, a chemical that affects our activities and emotions. The feeling of accomplishment that only dopamine brings motivates us to accomplish more tasks in the future.
How to Create a List?
Your list should help you accomplish your tasks faster; not prolong it. To craft a clutter-free list, read our suggestions below.
1. Carry a Journal with You
Carry your journal with you to remind you of your list every time. Some people may choose to put their records in a digital app but, writing things down helps us remember things more. So, the next time you're creating a list, opt for a journal. The motion of writing and mental coordination helps us retain information longer.
2. Start with the Easy Ones
The problematic tasks take more time to accomplish. To save you some time, start with the easy ones such as house chores. Simple chores such as "Water the plants" or "Clean the room" are enough to make you feel productive the whole day. Do not forget to tick them off once done.
3. Be Specific
Generalized tasks such as, "Make a report" can be discouraging. To motivate you, break this down into smaller pieces. You can say, "Start the Introduction on Monday," this will somehow ease the burden and urge you to start working.
4. Create Your List the Night Before
Creating your list after the day's exhaustion can give you a clear mind on what needs to be accomplished. This makes you identify which tasks to perform by the next day.
5. Do Not Go Beyond Seven
Lists are generally made to summarize long and complicated tasks by breaking them down into small pieces. A simple list will get you overwhelmed and demotivated, and that will result in zero productivity. If you feel seven is too much for you, then find a number that is more suitable for you.
6. Stay Flexible
There are unforeseen circumstances that disrupt our accomplishment of tasks. Things such as your computer not working will ultimately interrupt your job that requires the use of technology. One trick is to give a few minutes of allowance before proceeding to the next task. Don't pressure yourself, take a breather because you deserve it after all that meticulous planning and working!
Once you are done accomplishing specific tasks in your list, create a list anew. It will free your list from highlighters or pen marks.
