How To Pare Down Your To-Do List And Get It Under Control

A to-do list helps us stay organized and get things done.

But if your list of daily tasks is as long as your arm, you’ll end up with even more overwhelm and stress.

Part of learning how to write effective to-do lists is learning how to pare them down.

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The simplest way to pare down your list is to take a realistic look at its items and consider which will have the most impact.

Then, narrow your list down to this handful of items.

For each item, consider what it will mean for you to get it done. Alternatively, what will happen if you don’t get it done today?

Think about your goals.

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Use these guidelines to narrow your list down to a few important items.

But what about the rest?

After all, the whole point of your to-do list is that they have to be done!

Another time you can do them. For example, take an item and put it on tomorrow’s list or schedule it for later in the week.
If someone else can do it. See if you can delegate tasks to somebody else who has more free time.
Which items really don’t need to be on the list. Don’t be afraid to toss something out if it doesn’t get you closer to your goals and there aren’t any negative consequences to not doing it.

How many items to pare your list down to is up to you.

You may also want to set a time limit for your day.

For example, your workday goes until 5, so narrow your to-do list down to only tasks you can complete in that timeframe.

Leave a comment and share a tip on how you have been able to pare down your to-do list.