The what, why and how of to-do lists

Developing time management skills is a journey
that may begin with this Guide, but needs practice and other guidance along the way.
What:

• Listing!
  A simple presentation of three to five tasks that enables you to identify and visualize a core group of tasks in one place for easy reference
• It grows and shortens
  as you work through items
• Posted
  on a bulletin board, refrigerator or space
  readily reminds you of what you prioritize to do and when you need to do it (deadlines)
• Organize!
  It is an organizational tool that can be used for scheduling with
  electronic calendaring, strategic post-it notes, email, instant messenger, SMS and other communication services, etc.
• It can be a Not-to-do list where the time is not right, but you don't want to forget the item
• May help you develop timelines, sub-tasks, etc. to get the job done!
  (but separate from the to do list!)

Why:

• Reduce stress
  You can reduce stress by itemizing and prioritizing tasks and giving them a place in your life.
• Remind yourself
  A list displayed in a prominent place can remind you of what you consider important to do.
• Strategize completion
  When reminded, you also are thinking about the task,
  as well as what resources, strategies and options for completing the task!
• It can be fun!
  Playing with the list can encourage thinking outside of the box for solutions.
  Add images and pictures to create a more enjoyable even accurate presentation.

How:

• Use the simple exercise above to identify tasks
• Go to Prioritizing tasks to build an operational sequence
• Enter items into electronic calendaring, strategic post-it notes, email, instant messenger, SMS and other communication services
• Share
  With friends, family and colleagues for assistance and insights
  to communicate what you are working on and where you are
• Cross off items and celebrate their completion
• Apply the to do list to your daily life