Forget The To-Do List, Start A Done List
To-do lists are such a common productivity tool but lists don’t have to be restricted to just stuff that you need or want to do. For instance, GTD encourages you to break down your next actions into lists defined by contexts, which are essentially to-do lists but grouped by when or where you”re likely to do them. Imagine you are sat at the computer and can immediately pick out those tasks that you can do right at your desk while ignoring the rest. I’ve created all sorts of different lists for different purposes, including a done list.
The done list is primarily a motivational tool. Basically, whenever I do something to be proud of, such as win an award or competition, complete a difficult project, or push myself and stretch my boundaries, I put it on this list.
Too often we forget about all the achievements we have done over the years and we doubt our abilities. We only think about what we are achieving in the here and now. Since I’ve started filling in my done list, I’ve been reminded of the praise I got at school and the awards I won for my artwork. It’s been a while since I last painted anything so when I recently started again, I was really disappointed by my efforts and, frankly, I was tempted to give up. That was until I remembered my past achievements, what I was capable of and still am capable of.
How you choose to implement your done list is your choice. You can do it GTD style and have contexts (achievements you did at school, work, in your personal life, etc.) or you can have one big list, which is what I personally have. It’s a really big boost to see a large pile of sheets listing all the great things I have achieved.
When you first fill it in, remember to think as far back as possible and include anything you consider to be an achievement, no matter how small. Don’t compare your achievements to other people, be proud of what you personally have done. You might win a trophy with your local football team but then look at the World Cup trophy and question its significance. I can bet that every player who lifted that trophy was grateful for each and every minor medal or trophy they won on the way.
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