Getting Things Done

Nearly every day the sun comes up there are things on our to-do lists that we do not want to do.  Sometimes these things are hard, sometimes they are time consuming, and sometimes they are just no fun.  I have found a little secret that works well for me and helps me to plow through the monotony of the lists.  And it’s simple!

First, do the things that are important.  For me these things include reading my Bible, prayer, journaling, making my to-do list for the day, and getting my exercise done.  On most days, this process starts at 5:30 a.m. and is done by the time I arrive at the office between 8 and 8:30 a.m.

Next, I do the things that are hard.  When I arrive at the office I look over my list once again.  I pick out the things that I know I do not want to deal with, and I do them.  Getting these things off of the list does a couple of things for me.  First of all it gets them out of my way.  Second, it gives me a great sense of momentum.

Finally, I do the things that remain on the list but are simple or enjoyable.  Having the list keeps me accountable.  Prioritizing the list makes me productive.  Being productive makes me feel much better about life in general.