To-do lists. Whether you love them or can’t stand even the thought of them, they remain classic organizing tools. In a cam model’s arsenal, an effectively written to-do list could be a very helpful addition — if you’re not already using one, that is.
Making it fun
For sure, a to-do list can be a source of panic. On occasion, a to-do list can prove counterproductive . Overwhelmed with the number of things on the list, no idea how to start or what to start with can create headaches.
Author and productivity coach Kirstin O’Donovan addressed the issue for Lifehack, along with a few tips about how to make a to-do list work for you. Per O’Donovan, to-do list golden rules include:
- Categorize: In order to avoid getting overwhelmed, break your tasks into categories.
- Estimate time: Will the task require one hour or one day? Budgeting for that is important.
- Prioritize: “Now” and “later” and everything in between.
- Review: Your list is not set in stone. In fact, it needs to be a flexible daily tool. Check in with your list and update it accordingly.
An effectively written to-do list can provide clarity, help you prioritize your actions for the day ahead and make you feel more organized. If you’re not down with the old pen-and-paper combo, you can always take the digital route. Plenty of apps can help you streamline your workload and maybe even put a little play into your day.
Check out the following, and you may become a list-maker after all.
Sometimes simple is best, even with apps. MinimaList combines a clean, no-fuss to-do list with actionable notifications to remind you of tasks. In addition, it offers a timer which you can set so you focus on the task for a set amount of time.
Great for: the cammer with a love of minimalism.
Available for: iOS.
A powerful task manager/calendar combo that can remind you of tasks by time, date and location. It’s also probably the most cross-compatible app on this list, as it’s available for iOS, Android and OS X, plus as a web-based app and a Chrome extension.
Great for: the tech-loving cammer.
Available for: iOS, Android, OS X, web-based, Chrome extension.
Breaking down all of your tasks and showing you only what needs doing today, Taskful helps remove some of the intimidation that can come with a to-do list. It helps you focus on priorities and gives you encouragement and progress reminders daily.
Great for: a more focused and relaxed approach to your task list.
Available for: iOS.
This one’s been around for a while now. Remember the Milk helps you create tasks and lists, syncing across devices and setting deadlines and priorities. It does the basics very well, but you do have the option of upgrading to a Pro subscription, which will set you back $39.99 a year.
Great for: the cammer who likes the option of amping up a basic app.
Available for: iOS, Android.
Turning daily tasks into a role playing game, Habitica is a free habit-building and productivity app. Formerly known as HabitRPG, it certainly brings the fun into your working day. The app has in-game rewards and punishments and a strong social network that’s got your back throughout. More than two million people have joined.
Great for: the playful cammer who wants to infuse their working day with a bit of fun.
Available for: iOS, Android.
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Jillian Boyd is an author and editor based in London. She blogs at LadyLaidBare.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JillyBoyd and email her at jillian@ynotcam.com.
Image © St. Mattox.
