By Amanda
Deta
ils, details and more details! This is my life as a mother and as a social media manager. Each day, I have two 'to-do' lists to keep track of - the things at the office that need to get done and the things at home that need to get done. I keep a list of the days of the week and the tasks that need to get done each day. If I can get more done on one day, then I can catch up on other stuff, if not, then the things I didn’t get done today are the first thing I do the next day.
But let’s face it, we all struggle to organize and to prioritize. This is a challenge for some and a battle for others. The important thing is to find a method that works for you. You may have to try a few before you find the right one, but once you do, your life will be much easier.
Michael Schechter talks about “The Four Pillars of A Productive Foundation” and the four key areas that need to be dealt with before we can ever do the things that we hope to accomplish in our lives. Having a good foundation to any process is important. 
Gini Dietrich recently published, “Technology vs. Paper for Your Task List.” I personally use both. I have my iPad on me at all times so that I can reference what I already have scheduled, but I also keep everything written down. Like Gini, I also get great satisfaction from physically checking something off my list.
Here are a few things I recommend to keep organized:
- Prioritize. Identify what needs to get done and in what order.
- Write it down. Put it in a list from most important to least important.
- Consider Timeliness. If the task is time specific, write the time it needs to be done next to it.
- Visibility. Keep your list in front of you (out of sight out of mind).
- Re-prioritize. Go over your list at the end of the day, re-prioritize if need be.
- Keep it simple! Do not over-organize your organization.
- Do not stress. Last but not least, do not freak out of something doesn’t get done. The world will not end!
How do you keep organized? Share your tips!
I keep a paper to-do list and use Google Calendar for email and pop-up reminders for appointments. For me, windows and apps get buried too easily on my laptop / computer / phone. I find the act of writing the list really helps me prioritize what needs to be done and mentally prepares me to focus on the tasks at hand. Crossing it off does feel good, doesn't it?!
It sure does feel good to cross of the finished items on your list! We also use Google for appointment reminders. I find that if I do not write down the things I need to get done, I forget the tasks much easier.
As much as I love technology, I have to have my calendar on paper and check things off when they are done. I tried having a schedule on my phone or my iPad, but it was out of sight, out of mind for me.
I totally agree! I actually do both, I have it written and and on my iPad so that I get a reminder. This seems like a lot of work, i know, but it works for me and I think that is whats important. Whatever works for you is the best way!