Most to-do lists don’t work because the list is too long and it seems daunting. You may never be sure what to do or when to
get the task done.
Once you brain dump, you have to organize so
that you can create a plan of attack.
If a task is actionable then add to an next actions list
If it’s a project add it to the project list
(this way you can break down individual tasks for this project)
Anything considered "need for later as a reference"
create a reference file
Is it an action someone else can do for you?
Then add it to the delegate list
Is it something that can be deferred to another time (later this week, month quarter year)?
Then add it to your calendar or onto a next action list.
The next action list is where your to dos are.
We do not want a huge list!
You can divide the next action list into categories.
Ex: personal, family, finances, social
If an item is not actionable, create a sooner or later list. This is for items you don’t need to do now but don’t want to forget.
Like your brain dump, organizing is an ongoing activity. Don't be afraid to add, edit, and adjust as necessary!