Why is it when we have so much to do, we end up doing so little? Is it because when we’re confronted with so many tasks, we find ourselves so overwhelmed that we end up doing none of them? If so, how do we turn this thing around?
It can be simple. We need to get rid of that feeling of being overwhelmed, or at least, overcome it. The way to do that is to prioritise.
The first step of prioritising is working out what needs to be done, as well as the order that these need to be accomplished. A lot of people make the mistake of concentrating on easy tasks. You may get a lot of things done this way but not the really important things, the ones that actually make a difference.
Make a list
Make a list of all the things that need to be done. Now, organize these activities by urgency – must do’s, should do’s, and can do’s.
Must do’s are urgent and highly important activities that need to be accomplished right away to avoid consequences.
Should do’s are important but not urgent activities that can wait a while before you have to face the consequences of not fulfilling them.
Can do’s are activities that would be nice to do at some point, but won’t affect you if you don’t get around to doing them.
You’ll find that you get more things done if you’re looking forward to something. For example, if you finish all the must do’s by lunch time, treat yourself to a nice lunch. Rewards don’t have to be expensive or time consuming, but it has to be able to create anticipation and motivate you towards reaching your goals.