When I was in my early twenties, I had a reoccurring dream that I still vividly remember. I had climbed up into a plum tree in our backyard to pick fruit. As I reached for the first piece of fruit, I saw a more perfect plum hanging next to the first one. When I reached for the second plum, I saw another plum that looked even better. As I tried to decide which fruit to pick, the plums began to whither and fall off the tree. Because I could not focus on what was in front of me, I ended up with nothing.
I have had more careers and interests than I can count. My thoughts are easily distracted. I start one project but then want to jump to the next one before the first is completed.
Other people think I am very organized and focused. They don't know how hard I work to keep
myself focused.
Nearly every morning, I make a list of tasks and activities that I want or need to complete during the day. I usually group and prioritize these tasks. As I complete them, I cross them off. If I get too distracted, I look at my list and tackle another task. It is a tool that seems to work for me. I need a certain amount of flexibility to breathe. At the same time, I need to create enough structure for myself so that I feel like I am being responsible and using my time wisely. I do manage to get a lot done when I make my lists. I have learned to be my own taskmaster.
Are there other list makers out there? Do the lists help?
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