Living intentionally and getting stuff done
Minimalism is everywhere. But what does that mean? Minimalism is living intentionally. Typically, it has to do with possessions, but it’s more than just limiting your possessions.
It’s promoting what you value and removing the distractions. An organizer that reflects a minimalist approach will be more user friendly and increase your productivity when you can focus on the most important things in your day.
Technology is great for a lot of applications, but when it comes to to-do lists, there’s nothing like physically crossing something off the list when it’s done. If you need positive reinforcement, that simple act is therapeutic and even exciting. You can find hundreds of to-do lists to print off, but here are a couple that are minimalist in design and easy to use.
1. One Page Productivity Planner
High Performance Academy 1-Page Productivity Planner – Designed by Brendon Burchard, this productivity planner focuses on three projects that you’re working on.
It asks what you need to do to move them forward. Then, there is a section of people you need to reach out to or contact. The bottom section lists priorities, i.e. what you absolutely have to accomplish today.
2. Unique Daily Planner
Jillee’s Daily Planner is a pdf file with four sections, to do, appointments, meals, and notes. Personally, this one would be my favorite, with only five to-do lines, it makes you focus on the most important tasks. I also believe that when you plan meals, you eat healthier. Writing down what you’re cooking or eating is intentional.
3. A 3×5 Do-Too System
This 3×5 do-too system is cool. Your day is divided into two sections, before noon and after noon. Off to the side, you can estimate the time the task will take. If you have a way to time the task, you can compare the actual time to the estimated time. This will increase your productivity when you know realistic time frames to get things done.
The secret to making any of these work for you
When it comes to making a to do list, what works for you is more important than what it looks like. You can print out all the pages you want, but if you don’t use it you haven’t gained anything. It could be as simple as a post-it note or 3×5 notecard. Sometimes, it takes time to discover what works. Use one system for a week. If it’s not working, ask yourself if it can be tweaked to meet your needs. If not, move on to the next one. Don’t waste time trying to fit yourself into someone else’s plan.
