How to get your to-do list done and dusted

Do you keep glancing at your ever-growing to-do list and wish it would disappear? Tackling a list of tasks is a great feeling, but what if you can’t seem to get it done? Here is how you can get on top of it.

Schedule the time

By blocking out time in your diary, you’re going to increase your chances of going through your list. Even if you can’t complete everything in one sitting, schedule thirty minutes a day to focus on what you need to get done. Treat this time like you would a meeting. In other words, let others know that you are not available. Desk flags or signs on your computer can be a good way to indicate to colleagues that you are currently unavailable.

Remove distractions

With the constant pinging of our mobiles and emails, regular interruptions are becoming increasingly common. Emails and notifications never stop. Once you set the time aside, turn your phone to ‘do not disturb’ and close your emails. Everything will still be there when you return. Allow yourself to focus on one task at a time.

Prioritise

To-do lists can become overwhelming when there is a lot to get through. To get underway, prioritise your items. What is most urgent? What can wait? Shuffle the items around in order of priority. This will help get the big items out of the way. Once you start, you’re sure to feel a sense of achievement and be motivated to keep going.

To-do lists are a great way to stay on track and on top of your work. But when you keep adding to it and not completing anything, they can become stressful rather than useful. By scheduling the time, focusing and prioritising – you’re sure to get that list done and dusted.