9 Sure-Fire Ways to Tackle Your To-Do Lists Every Day

Published

5 years ago

April 2, 2019

Time and time again, I have written about the power of to-do lists and why you should make them. To-do lists can help us in more ways than one. Having a list gives you a direction for your day, and you are not running around with no tact. It shows you what tasks are a priority, and what needs to be done when. It highlights the time required for each task, and how you should plan your day.

You start your day with a positive attitude, ready to conquer the world. But most days you have a lot of important things to attend to, that it becomes impossible to prioritize. On days like these, we don’t get most of the things on our lists done, because we are overwhelmed by the sheer amount of tasks.

Writing down what you need to achieve can help you have a clear vision towards it. Some people make the mistake of writing too many things on their to-do lists, and that just makes them panicky because it is not possible to complete that many tasks in a day. If something that is meant to help you, ends up making you anxious, then that is surely not good.

If you follow proper protocols… that sounds too technical, doesn’t it? Well, let’s put it this way. If you just keep a few things in mind while making your to-do list, then you will see the kind of positive effect it has on your day, and your ability to do all your work efficiently.

1. Prepare your to-do lists the night before

At the end of the day, you know what you have completed, and what needs your attention next. It is the best time to create a game plan for the next day. It’s like getting a head start. When you make a list at night, you already know what you need to focus on first the next day, what work you can fit in, considering your schedule.

If you wake up early, then you can use that time as well, but before going to bed is a good time to strategize. You don’t have to wake up to the task of planning then. Putting indicators to tasks that are priorities, urgent, or can be put-off, is something that will help you go about your day as soon as you wake up. If you are not an early riser, then making a list in advance will let you know at what time to wake up to keep your day running smoothly.

For me, I make a list of my three MITs (Most Important Tasks). It is advised to make a list of 2-3 MITs and try to achieve them as soon as possible, they are critical tasks that yield the most significant results.

2. Don’t make your lists overwhelming

I understand the urge to fill up our lists with all the tasks that are swarming our minds, but I would discourage you from doing so. It’s not the lists that overwhelm us, it’s what and how much we put on it. Ever heard about not overfilling your plate, this is exactly that.

What I suggest is, writing down everything that’s on your mind. It could be a month’s worth of work, or work that could be completed in a day; just do a brain dump on a paper or your to-do app of choice. I use Things 3 on my Mac, iPad and, iPhone. It’s one of the best to-do apps I have ever used and syncs my tasks across all devices.

Check out my review of Things 3.

After doing that, take things out from it to do each day, and do not look at the main list you made again while going about your day. This will free up your mind from the plethora of tasks that need to be done and will let you focus on what you can do now. There’s no point stressing over the bulk and doing nothing to make a dent in it.

3. Tackle the biggest mountain first

It can be tempting to complete the smaller tasks, and it feels good to strike off things on your list. But, in a way, it is your way of putting off the difficult task. Once you have completed all the easy tasks and only the tough one remains, you start feeling down. The high of striking off things from the list is gone. You feel like you have accomplished enough, completed almost all the tasks on your list, and as a result, you slow down.

Most of the times, the tough things are the important ones. Instead of putting them off, you need to tackle them first. Climb the biggest mountain first, then the others are a walk in the park.

4. Combine easy and difficult tasks

Just because it is a good idea to complete the tough task first, doesn’t mean your list should be full of them. Make a to-do list in such a way that it leaves you some breathing space. Do not fill your days with all the difficult tasks that you can think of, it will become real hectic real soon, and you don’t want that.

Sprinkle easy, if possible fun, tasks in your list and also shorter tasks that can be completed in 5-10 minutes tops This makes sure that you don’t fry your brain trying to do the impossible. It is not possible to do a week’s worth of work in a day. While getting all the big projects out of the way can feel like a good idea, but it is, in fact, a bad one.

5. Prioritize your tasks

It is really important to know what tasks need to be done when. You can use any indicators that make the most sense to you. I divide them into high-priority, priority, low-priority. You can also call them must-do, should-do, would-like-to-do. Give them a number, or assign a letter.

Suppose,

A is high-priority,

B is priority,

C is low-priority,

then write down the letters next to the tasks; now you know which ones to do first. This also helps isolate the tasks to further organize your tasks in a workable fashion.

One thing to keep in mind is to not add more than 2-3 tasks in the high-priority section. Because there is only so much stress we can handle in a day, if you add most of your tasks in that section then you are most probably setting yourself up for failure.

6. Assign blocks of time to tasks

Knowing how much time you require to complete a task can come in handy when making a list. You should assign blocks of your day to a specific kind of task. Suppose you reply to emails faster in the afternoon and prepare reports in lesser time in the morning, then that is how you should plan your day.

Utilizing your strengths and dividing your day also gives you a chance to not focus on your entire list at once. You can forget the rest, and just focus on the task at hand, because you know that the other tasks have time allocated specifically for them.

Parkinson’s law states, “work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.” Setting too much time for a task, or too little time can be a cause for failure in completing your list. Allocating more time than needed will make you do your work at a leisurely pace, not leaving enough time for other tasks. Setting less time will make your rush, which can then compromise the quality of your work.

7. Eliminate distractions

FOMO or “Fear of missing out” is one of the things that has been a widespread problem that has come with the excessive use of social media. Nobody wants to miss anything, the result of which is constant pings on your mobile phone.

When you work, it is important to eliminate any kind of distraction that you might face. Distractions take you much longer to do a task, and the constant diversion of attention doesn’t help either.

Close unnecessary tabs, make it a rule to not use your phone in the block that you are working in, I am not telling you to abandon your phone for the whole day, but if you follow any sort of timeboxing then it is easier to put down your phone for a short period of time. Avoid working with the TV on in the background, do not work with constant flowing conversation, and focus only on the work at hand.

For me, I keep my phone in another room while doing my Pomodoros and only check it during the breaks. You can also use apps like Brain.fm and Noizio to focus better. They basically play ambient sounds that help you concentrate and focus better.

8. Insert various breaks throughout your work day

Many people think taking breaks is a waste of time, when time and again it has been proven that taking breaks is actually beneficial and helps you get more work done than if you would have worked continuously.

For time management, many organizations use timeboxing (mainly used for software development) for project management as well as personal time management. How it works is, you divide your schedules into a number of set time periods. Each allocated fixed period has its own attributes: plans, deliverables, deadlines, etc. A more workable form for everyone based on this principle is the Pomodoro technique.

Pomodoro technique is one of the most used techniques. It is a time management technique that uses a timer to break down your work into intervals of 25 minutes each and these blocks are punctuated with 5-minute breaks. This technique is so widely used that you will get a ton of apps and websites with a timer to help you with it.

9. Start fresh every day

There will be days when you won’t complete all the tasks on your list. I would suggest throwing away that list and start a new one every day. When you just add on to the existing list, the next day when you start, you start with a feeling of not having completed the tasks the day before. “If only” can plague your mind: if only I had done the work yesterday, if only I worked faster, and so on. This is not a healthy attitude to begin your day with.

Toss the list and start a new one with the remaining tasks and new tasks, it makes you feel like you have a new set of tasks. Whatever makes you feel positive about your workflow is what you are going to apply.

I have always considered making a good plan to be half-battle won. To-do lists are your daily plans. If you prepare them smartly, and then apply them to the T, you will realize that getting work done is easier than it always seemed.

You have to always consider your strengths, your weaknesses, your schedule, the probability of last-minute tasks, the average time to get a job done, any kind of raw data that can help you get into the habit of making an almost foolproof plan. Follow these steps, and you will get into the habit of making a to-do list that works for you, and then as you go on, you can keep tweaking it to suit your needs.

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The TED Talk Effect

Published

2 weeks ago

November 19, 2023

Maria Johnson

In June 2006, the first online TED talk was uploaded, marking the beginning of a revolutionary platform that would transform how we share ideas. TED, which stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, has since evolved into a global phenomenon, hosting speakers from diverse backgrounds who share their expertise and experiences to spur inspiration.

The 18-minute time limit imposed on each speaker challenges speakers to focus on clarity, impact, and the core of their ideas. This unique constraint has proven to be a strength, as it demands that speakers be concise, engaging, and purposeful, resulting in talks that are not only informative but also captivating.

These talks have challenged preconceived notions and inspired individuals to think beyond their immediate surroundings. Whether you’re taking a break from your online casino experience at Playcroco Casino or seeking inspiration, exploring these talks can provide a refreshing perspective on the world around you.

How TED Talks Leverage the Art of Storytelling

Human psychology has an inherent affinity for storytelling, and TED Talks have mastered creating compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. A staggering 65% of the information we remember comes from stories, highlighting the power of narrative in communication.

TED Talks aim to create an emotional connection long after the talk concludes. Speakers infuse their narratives with emotion, whether through personal experiences or humor. They draw empathy, engagement, and a genuine connection with the audience. This emotional resonance makes ideas memorable and impactful.

Examples of Memorable TED Talks

Numerous TED Talks stand as shining examples of the art of storytelling.

Sir Ken Robinson’s “Do Schools Kill Creativity?” is a great example, having already garnered over 22 million views. Robinson takes the audience through his childhood experiences and observations to convey a powerful message about the need for educational reform.

“The Danger of a Single Story” is another impactful talk by Chimamanda N. Adichie that explores the impact of narratives on shaping our understanding of the world. Adichie eloquently argues that a single story fosters misunderstanding and reinforces prejudices, inhibiting our ability to see the rich diversity that defines humanity.

Jon Jandai’s TED Talk, “Life is easy. Why do we make it so hard?” stands out as a thought-provoking exploration of the simplicity of life and the unnecessary complexities we often impose upon ourselves. He advocates for a return to a simpler way of life, where contentment is derived from an appreciation of the present.

Additionally, Jill Bolte Taylor’s “My Stroke of Insight” is noteworthy. Taylor, a neuroscientist, recounts her personal experience with stroke and how it helped her understand the human brain. By merging scientific knowledge with a deeply personal story, Taylor creates an informative and deeply moving narrative.

How to Get the Most from TED Talks

Whether you’re a student, professional, or lifelong learner, extracting the utmost value from TED Talks can greatly enrich your understanding of the world. Here’s a guide on how to get the most from these presentations:

Create a Playlist

TED talks cover many topics, from science and technology to arts and culture. Having a personalized playlist ensures that you engage with content that resonates with your passions and goals.

Select Diversely

While it’s great to explore topics you’re familiar with, don’t shy away from unfamiliar territories. TED Talks provide a unique opportunity to broaden your horizons. Choose talks that challenge your perspectives and introduce you to new ideas and experiences.

Set Aside Dedicated Time

Juggling the demands of a busy schedule is challenging, but dedicating some time to TED Talks is a worthwhile investment in your learning journey. By deliberately setting aside moments in your day, you create a focused environment for absorbing the rich insights and perspectives that TED offers.

Explore Additional Resources

Many TED speakers have written books and articles or have additional online content. After watching a talk, delve deeper into the speaker’s work to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Attend TEDx Events

TEDx events are independently organized TED-like experiences at the local level. Attend these events to engage with live speakers, take part in discussions, and connect with like-minded individuals within your community.

Stay Updated

TED continually releases new talks, and staying updated ensures you remain at the forefront of groundbreaking ideas.

Subscribe to the TED newsletter or follow TED on social media to receive regular updates.

Apply What You Learn

The true value of TED Talks lies in applying the lessons. Consider how the ideas presented can be integrated into your personal or professional life. Challenge yourself to take actionable steps based on the insights gained from the talks.

Engage in Discussions

TED Talks often spark meaningful conversations. Share your favorite talks with friends, colleagues, or online communities. Discussing the content with others will enhance your understanding and expose you to different interpretations and insights.

The TED Talk effect represents a shift in communication, where brevity takes top priority. It’s an invaluable resource for those seeking to engage in a meaningful exploration of the ideas that shape our world. The legacy of TED Talks lies in their ability to inspire, inform, and unite a global audience in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. So go ahead and embark on a journey of enlightenment and inspiration through the enriching world of TED Talks.

Productivity

Building Confidence to Live Your Most Fulfilled Life

Published

3 weeks ago

November 10, 2023

Maria Johnson

Achieving your dream life isn’t easy. Success frequently requires you to step outside your comfort zone, face your fears, and venture out into the unknown. You have to believe it’s possible and, more importantly, believe that you can! This is harder than it sounds – they don’t teach you how to believe in yourself in school.

Of course, hard doesn’t mean impossible. You can learn how to believe in yourself. You can build up to it, slowly and steadily, until you’re ready to live your best life. The following are a few ways to work on and grow your self-confidence levels:

Build Up Your Body

Do you look after your body? Your body is one of the best assets you have. When you look after your body, you are full of good health. You look good, have the energy you need to go after your goals, and feel good about yourself. Having a healthy body will give you a nice self-confidence boost. To build up your body, eat right, follow a fitness routine, and get adequate rest.

Build Up Your Mind

Just like building up your body helps your confidence, so does building up your mind. There are several ways to work on your mind. You can learn to manage stress better, build up a more supportive inner voice, and develop more willpower and discipline, for example. A strong mind allows you to think clearly, reduce confusion, and, ultimately, will make you more confident in yourself.

Build Up Your Wealth

Money can’t buy happiness, but it does give you material security and safety. Getting into a better financial situation will make you more confident about yourself, not to mention practically finance any life goals you may have. An effective way to build up money is to find ways to save money and cut back on expenses. Eliminate luxuries, focus on necessities, and live within your means. Refinancing is a clever way to save money. It helps you obtain more favorable terms on your existing loan by decreasing the equity in your home. It frees up cash and reduces the payment you make per month on your mortgage.

Find Good People to Connect With

The people you interact with frequently have a big impact on your confidence levels. It’s easier to believe in yourself when you’re around people who don’t judge you too harshly and are actively encouraging of all your efforts. If you don’t have a close circle of supportive family members or friends already, you could attempt to form new connections. Consider joining support groups, attending events that interest you, and similar to find like-minded people.

Consistently Set and Achieve Goals

It’s easier to feel more confident when you have achievements to be confident about. As such, it’s a good idea to set and achieve growth goals for yourself consistently. This can be anything – being more fit, learning a new skill, being more organized, and anything else. Even small achievements matter and add up.

For added effect, you can create an achievements journal for yourself to write in every night.

Find a More Rewarding Job

Again, your job has an impact on your self-confidence levels. When you’re successful at work, you feel good about yourself and believe you can do anything. If your job isn’t rewarding enough or is actively harming your self-confidence, switching to a more rewarding one will work wonders for your self-confidence.

Preparing a stellar-looking CV can help you land a more rewarding job (and make you feel good about your achievements). The best CVs highlight your academic background, career experience, and skills. To make a more professional-looking resume, you can use a free online CV builder. Such tools come with pre-built templates that you can customize further with text, photos, and colors. Here is a CV maker for the task.

Believe in Your Higher Self, Too

The truth is even the most confident people don’t know everything or aren’t strong all the time. But everyone has an in-built guidance system (aka their intuition or gut feeling) that can help them make the right choices when they’re feeling lost. It never leads you astray. Also, there is always a helping hand and a safety net. Even if you make mistakes, your Higher Self has your back. Believing that can greatly bolster your self-confidence.

Get Professional Assistance

You don’t have to take the journey to better physical health alone. You can sign up for a Functional Medicine program for an impactful and long-lasting health boost. Look for a program that offers a range of services, from detox to holistic testing, that are designed to find and eliminate roadblocks in your journey to wellness and health.

To build up your confidence, you’ll have to work on your lifestyle. Everything you do daily, from diet to exercise, will have an impact on your self-belief. Building up positive physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual habits will go a long way toward boosting your self-confidence, which will ultimately help you manifest your dream life.

Productivity

All About Blomberg Appliances: Popular Models And Usage Insights

Published

1 month ago

October 19, 2023

Maria Johnson

For those who prioritize efficient, innovative, and dependable household appliances, Blomberg has established itself as a reputable brand. Blomberg consistently delivers high-quality products, spanning a range from washing machines and dryers to refrigerators and dishwashers. However, to fully optimize your investment, it’s vital to familiarize yourself with both the popular models and the intricacies of operating Blomberg appliances. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into Blomberg appliances, showcasing some of their most sought-after models and providing valuable insights into their usage. Whether you’re contemplating the purchase of a Blomberg appliance or are already a proud owner, this comprehensive guide will assist you in making the most of your investment. Should you ever encounter issues, don’t hesitate to explore Blomberg appliance repair Toronto services for the solutions you need.

The Popularity of Blomberg Appliances

Blomberg is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, making it a top choice for modern households. The brand offers a wide range of appliances, each designed to meet specific needs while delivering outstanding performance. Here are some of the most popular Blomberg appliance categories:

Washers and Dryers: Blomberg offers a variety of washing machines and dryers known for their efficiency, reliability, and advanced features. Many models feature quick wash cycles, steam technology, and heat pump dryers for energy-efficient drying.
Refrigerators: Blomberg refrigerators come in various sizes and configurations, including French doors, bottom freezers, and side-by-side designs. They are celebrated for their advanced cooling technology, ample storage space, and sleek designs.
Dishwashers: Blomberg dishwashers are known for their quiet operation, efficient cleaning cycles, and innovative features like flexible loading options and water-saving technology.
Cooking Appliances: Blomberg offers a wide range of cooking appliances, including gas and electric ranges, wall ovens, and cooktops. These appliances are favored for their precise cooking controls and convenient features.

Popular Models of Blomberg Appliances

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular models of Blomberg appliances:

1. Blomberg WM98400SX Front Load Washer

Features: This front-load washer offers a spacious 2.5 cu. ft. drum capacity and advanced features like AquaStop Plus for water leak protection, and an Inverter Motor for quiet and efficient operation.

2. Blomberg DHP24412W 24″ Ventless Heat Pump Front Load Electric Dryer

Features: The DHP24412W dryer offers a heat pump for energy efficiency, a large 4.1 cu. ft. drum capacity, and a variety of drying programs, including a wool cycle for delicate items.

3. Blomberg BRFB1450SSN 28″ Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator

Features: This French door refrigerator boasts a 13.3 cu. ft. capacity, digital display, LED lighting, and a water and ice dispenser. It’s Energy Star certified for efficiency.

4. Blomberg DWT81800SS Built-In Dishwasher

Features: This built-in dishwasher offers an array of wash programs, a stainless steel tub for durability, and a delay start feature. It’s praised for its low noise level and efficient cleaning.

5. Blomberg BIRP34450SS 30″ Pro-Style Induction Range

Features: This pro-style induction range features a 4-zone induction cooktop, a 5.7 cu. ft. oven capacity, and 13 cooking modes. It’s designed for precision cooking and is both stylish and functional.

Nuances of Using Blomberg Appliances

To make the most of your Blomberg appliances, consider the following usage insights:

Read the Manual: Always start by reading the user manual that comes with your Blomberg appliance. Each appliance may have unique features and requirements, and the manual provides essential guidance.
Proper Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your appliance in excellent condition. Follow the maintenance schedule provided in the manual and clean or replace filters, gaskets, and other components as required.
Energy Efficiency: Blomberg appliances are designed for energy efficiency. To maximize this, use the appliance’s energy-saving modes and load it to capacity whenever possible to save water and electricity.
Loading Considerations: When using a dishwasher or a washer, be mindful of how you load the machine. Overloading can lead to suboptimal cleaning while underloading wastes water and energy.
Water Quality: The quality of your water can affect appliance performance. Consider using a water softener if your water is hard, as hard water can lead to mineral build-up in your appliances.
Regular Cleaning: Clean the exterior and interior of your appliances regularly to prevent dirt and grease buildup. Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning products and methods.
Proper Installation: Ensure your Blomberg appliance is properly installed, leveled, and connected according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This helps prevent damage and ensures optimal performance.

When to Consider Blomberg Appliance Repair Toronto

While Blomberg appliances are known for their reliability, there may come a time when you need professional assistance.

Consider contacting Blomberg appliance repair in Toronto under the following circumstances:

Your appliance is still under warranty, and you want to avoid voiding the warranty by attempting repairs yourself.
The issue is beyond your expertise or requires specialized diagnostic equipment.
Safety hazards are involved, such as electrical problems or gas leaks.
Your troubleshooting efforts haven’t resolved the issue, or the problem persists.

Conclusion

Blomberg appliances have earned their reputation for quality, innovation, and efficiency. To make the most of your investment in these appliances, understanding their features, popular models, and nuances of usage is crucial. Regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and mindful usage can help you enjoy years of trouble-free service from your Blomberg appliances. When you encounter issues that are beyond your expertise or need professional attention, don’t hesitate to contact Blomberg appliance repair Toronto to ensure your appliances continue to serve you at their best.