Write it Down! Tips to Accomplishing Your Tasks

Did you know that the average person can only keep seven things in short-term memory at one time? Do you lay awake at night worried that you will forget something important? Are you consistently forgetting about tasks that need to be completed? Before you assume that your memory is failing, try writing your tasks down.

• Paper vs. Electronic -- I often get asked which task management system is better -- paper or electronic. There is no one right answer. It depends on your style, mobility, budget, etc. If you despise technology, don’t force an electronic solution on yourself. On the other hand, it you are on the run a lot and moving from one location to another, an electronic solution would be a great fit. Although there are many advantages to an electronic solution (less bulky, data back-up, access it from anywhere), there is no reason that you can’t get your to-dos organized using a pen and a pad of paper.
• Pick a "Home" -- Whether you decide on paper or electronic as the best fit for you, you need to pick a single "home" for your tasks. Remember, a place for everything and everything in its place. You don’t want to have anything homeless. Having a home for things is the best way to prevent clutter in your home, office and life. If you have chosen to track your tasks using paper, then have ONE pad of paper where you record your tasks. Many of my clients started with multiple pieces of paper or multiple pads of paper, each with a list of tasks that needed to get completed. If you prefer an electronic solution, then you need to decide between a desktop option (e.g. Microsoft Outlook), a mobile option (smartphone), or a web-based option (e.g. Remember the Milk or GoodToDo). Choose one and enter all of your tasks there.
• Record the Task -- As soon as you identify a task that needs to be completed, record it right away. There are more distractions today than ever before, so don’t wait to record it and take a chance of forgetting it all together. You are also better able to focus on the task at hand if you are not thinking about the things you don’t want to forget!
• Check Daily -- Review your to-dos at least once each day. By having them all in the same place, you can easily prioritize them and plan your day and your week.

It takes about 30 days of daily repetition to form a new habit. Stick with it. If you catch yourself scribbling to-dos on a napkin or the palm of your hand, stop and transfer them to your task management system. Before you know it, it will become a habit and your productivity will soar. If you would like help implementing a task management system, contact Organized Office Solutions today.