Tag: checklists

A checklist keeps you grounded and up to date. Do you have one?

If you are like me, you create some form of todo list to structure your work day. But do you also have a checklist?

The first thing I put on my to do list every day is: do my checklist. By doing that, I make sure I don’t forget to do the key things that need to be done every day. This is especially important  when I am overwhelmed with new things. Those few minutes of doing my checklist keeps things on track and prevents work from getting even worse.

The checklist also keeps me grounded. If I am not sure what to do next, I do my checklist. At least I know that is under control and I did the basics.

As for what to put on your checklist, I recommend you put the most important things on top. It often very basic things, like:

  • Review your email and list things to do
  • Review Slack/teams/etc. to see if you have to respond to people
  • etc.

Mostly the actions are: check on X and plan to take action or update Y. 

Don’t forget to put down things that aren’t necessary work things but things that make you more productive. So add things like drink water or take a 5 minute walk or check in on a loved one can help you be at your best every day. Heck if you find yourself missing lunch too often, then add take a lunch break.

So yes, having a todo list is important. But so is a checklist. Get one started. Mine is in an Excel spreadsheet, but use what works best for you.

For more on the importance of checklists, read these things I’ve written on them: