The Alternative to Resolutions

Posted in Wordful Wednesday

Traditional methods of "getting things done" just haven't worked for me. Time and time again I will find that 'to-do' at the end of my list that will inevitably get transferred over to the next one I create. I have often wondered why I do that. Is it the task itself that seems daunting? Or is it just not that important? But, if it wasn't that important how did it end up on my list in the first place? Well, I let go of the why and instead concentrated on what I knew. I finally understood that my relationship with those to-do's needed to change, but how?

I decided to reformat my life.....

As I looked over the seemingly endless to-do list, I realized that all of my items could fit into a category. I began to formulate categories with a general idea in mind, areas in which I wanted to place more of my focus on but can't seem to find the time to do so. I hand selected the categories while keeping what I value and love about life in mind, as well as those hiding in between. I started with a pretty long list to say the least.

Breaking down the reformation......

Having a list of things I wanted to do within a week's time was far better than adhering to a list that didn't allow for deviations. It basically gives me a selection of to-do's that are parallel to my ever changing moods. I am still keeping a master list of items, but have included a weekly category sheet where I add accomplished tasks that get paired with the closest matching category. Since defining the categories is up to me, some things can go in to more than one. By mid-week, I surprised myself with how much I managed to get done.

How to go about reformatting your own life.....

The categories are made up of keywords, all of which I believe are important for me to achieve. I came up with mine based on the things I love/like to do and more importantly the things I wanted to focus on doing more. Having this list has forced me to find ways of incorporating those to-do's in a way that works best for me. As a result, I have crossed off a lot more items!

I know what you're thinking, "This is as clear as mud!" or "What are these so called categories?!" I've got something better than lengthy explanations about what I picked and why. How about a visual aid! You know I love those.



I'm sure you can see why my list contains certain items within, if you were to make a list, I bet you would come up with a few of the same selections. Of course this method won't work for everyone, but if you think it will work for you, it wouldn't hurt to give it a try. If anything, you may create some new habits that are actually good for you!

Who knows...maybe you'd be brave enough to share your categories or alternative methods of getting things done?! If that sounded like a double-dog-dare.....it was! :o)