Why You Should Throw Away Your “To-Do” List
There’s no question the daily demands and responsibilities of life can become heavy and feel never-ending. It can be so easy to allow the pressures of these responsibilities to build up and weigh us down, especially if you’re struggling with procrastination or productivity shame. But what if I told you there is a way to relieve this pressure and achieve your goals faster? If I told you that a faster route to success is to prioritize your “To-Be” and “Ta-Da” lists instead!
First, it’s important to clarify that when I say to throw away your list of “To-Do’s”, I don’t necessarily mean this in a figurative way, but instead what I mean is to shift your attention and level of importance from: “To-Do’s” and “box-checking,” into habits and accomplishments. Keep the “To-Do’s”, but don’t let them be your primary focus. Better yet, move them onto the calendar.
The “To Be” List
Identify the person you want to become. Imagine this person as the future you; the person who is conquering the goals you’ve always dreamed of, the person who is achieving success now. How would they behave? What would they spend time doing? Who would their network consist of? It’s extremely important to identify these details. When you assume the feeling of success as if it has already happened, you step further into this ideal identity.
Focus on the habits this new, future-you embodies. Think back to the details of who they are and how they behave. Now take that and apply it to the habits you believe they would carry out. This might take some restructuring and shifting within your days, and that’s okay. If you need a guide, refer back to my blog on creating the Ideal Calendar. This is a great starting point to help you jump start a new routine. Further, a nightly routine to help you be more productive the next day too, so check that out.
The “Ta-Da!” List
Think of this list as the culmination of your small (and big) wins. We are so good at focusing on what we haven’t done and not as good at acknowledging and celebrating our wins. Even the small ones! From gaining new followers on your social media platforms, receiving a client referral, to closing a huge client that projects you forward to your financial goals. Becoming your biggest fan is one of the best ways to gain momentum and experience the compound effect. Plus it builds confidence to look back on all the evidence of what you have accomplished. Remembering past successes might just give you the courage-boost you need to tackle your next big thing.
This framework, along with taking the small action steps you place on your calendar vs. a never-ending list, will expedite your success. Join me for the launch of my Execute with Ease Programs to learn more and master this mindset. If you’re ready to start, get in touch with me today.
