A “to do" list is one of the most powerful tools ever created. This simple item can help one get on the path of action immediately. The act of writing down what we set out to accomplish has the power to drive us forward. People who work from this often find that momentum builds. Starting at the top is an easy way to get going.



Many people procrastinate simply because they have no idea what to do. There are countless hours wasted in the course of a year trying to determine what to do next. This is equally true for both personal and business life. Naturally, we are all adept at handling the emergency situations as they arise. Also, taking care of the tasks that are assigned to us by others is within our ability. However, many fail to attain the capability of being a “self starter". The reasons seem to be lack of motivation and direction. A “to do" list offers a cure for both of these inhibitors.

An easy way to begin is to write down 5-10 items that you wish to accomplish. When someone is accustomed to living life at the mercy of circumstances, this is a huge step. By listing a few actions on paper, you are beginning the process of taking control of the direction of your day. It is also laying the foundation whereby you will be able to increase the value of the activities in the future. A natural tendency is to focus our attention on the less difficult items. Unfortunately, the tasks often have little impact on our lives. Instead, we want to get to the point where we are concentrating on those tasks which will make our lives extraordinary.

Commitment is a vital factor in using this tool. For maximum effectiveness, one needs to commit to accomplishing what is written down. Failing to do so often leads to frustration or worse, esteem issues. The disappointment of consistently going back on your word negates the positive impact. Keep in mind that when you write it down, that is your commitment to get it done.

We found that a starting point is to take a day where little is planned. Perhaps choose a day one weekend that is open in terms of your existing commitments. The night before, make a list of all that you want to do the next day. This can be completely at random. If you really feel motivated, write down 15-20 things. It is important to do this the evening before because studies showed that the subconscious will actually begin working on the list while you are asleep. You will find that you wake up with a clearer insight into ways to accomplish what is on your list.

The list helps us break through procrastination by giving us an immediate direction. Upon awakening, we can begin with the item on the top of the page. The biggest factor in overcoming procrastination is to getting started. It is far easier to work out once you are at the gym than before you leave the house. The mental gymnastics occurs before you get going. Our list eliminates the thought process. Upon awakening, get busy with the first item. You are now on your way. After that is completed, move on to the second item. This reduces the lost time associated with delay. We see this often in business settings. People will waste time by walking around after completing one task. They are unsure of what to do next. The list enables us to seamlessly move from one activity to another.

Using this tool will not end all your problems with procrastination. I devoted an entire book to this topic and ways to overcome it. However, if you are struggling with this destructive habit, this is an ideal way to begin the path to a different life. Action is the key to all success. Procrastination destroys success since it inhibits the ability to act. Create a list of things that you want to do in the next hour. See how much more productive that time will become. Remember, getting started and moving forward builds momentum. This has a powerful effect on our overall accomplishments.