12 April,2011 08:50 AM IST | | Razvin Namdarian
In any given week or day there are a million things to be done, not all of them areu00a0 priority but they still need to be done - so how do you keep track of everything? One of the best tools of time management and keeping a track of all your assignments is the To Do List. Big Break gives you some tips to make a great list:
To-do list: Making a To-Do list helps you manage your work better
Put it in writing
Our memory is a fickle thing and you're most likely to forget things when under pressure or working on a tight deadline. So, make sure you have a written list of tasks rather than a mental list - never mind how strong you think your memory is! Besides, while writing out your list you may come across some other 'to dos' that had initially slipped your mind. It also helps you plan more systematically.u00a0
Be specific
If you note down 'meeting on Monday' that does not really convey anything about who the meeting is with, at what time or what's on the agenda of the meeting. These details need to be mentioned as well to enable you to better prepare for any task on your list.
Time frame
It's not just important to create a list - against each item but also to give yourself a deadline. This will also simplify the prioritising of tasks as per the time frame in which they are to be completed.
Break it down
Every task in your to do list should be broken down into its smaller components. This way you will be creating a process - knowing the exact order in which you do things to complete the entire task. Also the little 'tick marks' of completion will boost your confidence and commitment to the task.
Be realistic
In your enthusiasm to create a list, don't try to cram too much into it. Review the list you have made and be realistic about the deadlines you give yourself. Shift some tasks to a later date keeping only priority tasks on hand. See if you can clear your time table by delegating some tasks. There may be some tasks which could be clubbed together; this can free up more time for you as well.
Of course, the most extensive and well planned To Do List will come to naught if you don't have the commitment and the self-discipline to see it through. Also, to prevent burn out, don't forget to schedule some personal time in it for yourself!
