Having an unruly to-do list can be overwhelming. If you find yourself rushing around, but not actually getting anything done, try the following process:
- Write it all down. Put everything on one list. Determine which tasks are easy and which are more difficult.
- Do some easy things. Spend 15 minutes doing the easy tasks. Focus on speed: make the quick phone calls, shoot off the brief emails. Cross as many tasks off the list as you can.
- Turn to a bigger task. Turn off your phone, close all the open windows on your computer, and focus on one of the more challenging tasks. Do this for 35 minutes without distraction.
- Take a break. After 35 minutes, take a 10-minute break. Then return to step two.