Making a Big “To do” Giveaway
Published September 13, 2010When I was a grade school girl, I was rather dramatic.
A skinned knee was cause me to wail as if I’d been mortally wounded.
A tiny spider would set me screaming and send me running for cover as if I’d seen a tarantula.
If a friend were mad at me, I’d worry and pout and get a pit in my stomach thinking my social world had come to a complete end.
My antics often found my mom saying this to me, “Oh…you’re making a big “to do” about nothing.”
I never understood what that meant.
And she kind of pronounced it “ta do” not “to do”. What was up with that?
In college as an English/Speech minor, I studied Shakespeare. It was then I discovered he wrote a play called Much Ado About Nothing. Perhaps over the years that phrase had morphed into my moms cliche’. Who knows?
All I know is I am faced with a big “To Do” as of late…..as in “TO DO LIST”. You know, the kind of week or month where just making the “to do” list takes the better chunk of an hour.
Then, you are almost afraid to read what you wrote, surmising that perhaps, if you ignore it, it will go away. Kind of the opposite of the whole “If you build it they will come” thing. 
Can I get a witness?
Well, this week, let’s talk about making a big “to do”. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years:
~ Do NOT make just one “to do” list. If you write down 23 things and then, at the end of the day, you’ve only been able to cross off 5 items, you’ll feel defeated.
~Split your list into three categories: Today; Soon & Someday. The first list is what you have to do. The second is what you want to do if there is time and the third list holds those projects you may never get around to but would feel oh-so organized if you ever did!
~Beyond just prioritizing by splitting into the three lists, prioritize each list. By that I mean even the things on your Today list will need to be in order. You can either write them in order of importance. (That usually takes me a couple of tries and involves scratching or erasing and frustration.) Or, make the list and then wield a bright colored highlighter. Highlight only the first thing or two you must do. When they are done, cross them off and highlight something else. It doesn’t matter this way if they are in perfect order.
~Use a legal pad or top-bound spiral notebook. I put my fun and funky colored top-bound spiral notebook on my clipboard opened to my Today list. It is down the left side of my page. My Soon list is down the right side of my page. My Someday list is on the very last page of my notebook and I keep adding to it as I think of projects.
~Also use a clipboard that opens up to reveal a compartment for papers and pens. By having it on a clipboard that holds papers and my pen and highlighter, I can toss in any items that must be dealt with today; an overdue library book notice, a bill that must be paid asap, a permission slip that needs to be filled out and returned for an activity, etc… Make it a habit to check in your clipboard before nightfall and deal with any papers there.
~If you want to get even more specific, split your Today list into three categories: To Call; To Do and Computer. This helps me to see my work in chunks. Do I have lots of computer time work to do like answering and sending emails, writing or ordering items online? How many phone calls must I make for that project at church or for my son’s baseball team party?
This way, I can tell when it is best to do those tasks. If I have a half hour of calls to make and my son needs to be at his game 45 minutes before it starts, I can drop him off, whip over to Micky D’s or Biggby Coffee (depending on how much change I can rustle up from the bottom of my purse ) grab a coffee, go back to the ball diamond, position my lawn chair where I’ll get a good view, and make my calls until the game starts and I have to start hollerin’.
(Yeah… I’m one of those moms. And I will not stop. I’ve had too many of my sons’ teammates tell me, ” Mrs. E, When I was up to the plate, I heard you yell, ‘You can do it! You know you can! Come on now, give it a ride!’ And I thought, “I can do it ” The next thing we heard was the crack of a ball on a bat! I like to think it is due to the encouragement they heard and not due to the fact that the opposing team’s pitcher just lobbed it in there. So I say yell for those kids. Only positive things now…. This concludes this unplanned editorial.)
Okay…now your turn. How do you make your “to do” list? Or how are you frustrated in this area? Please share! One I-want-to-get-my-act-together-in-this-area gal will win a $10 Walmart card to buy herself a compartmentalized clipboard and a fun notebook or pack of legal pads to go with it.
And of course if time is tight due to your ever-growing to do list, just say, “I’m in!”
Speaking of winning, congrats to the winner from the scrapbooking post with Heather Vanderlaan over the weekend. She is Gina beckwith; timestamp Sept. 10 at 1:14 p.m. Send your home address to me at karen@proverbs31.org.
Okay ladies….leave your comments! Winner announced Wednesday morning!
81 Responses to Making a Big “To do” Giveaway
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I’m in!
I love the clipboard with a compartment idea. I am one of the most UNORGANIZED people on this planet. But, one of these days…..
As a longtime listmaker, I have used many products…notepads, dry erase boards, on the side of my lesson plan book, etc…but, I am now a Post-it girl. Stick those suckers on my purse, on the mirror, on the blender, on top of another Post-it, wherever!!! Wonder what will be my next listmaking go-to fave??!
First…Amen to the hoping the list will just disappear thing you wrote…
I add “To Buy” somewhere on on my list…things I need to buy to complete my list…Wish I were better at the prioritizing thing…I will work on that…
I do everything through Microsoft Outlook. I put myself reminders in there to do things such as appointments and even upcoming birthdays.
Lists, lists, and more lists…. will they ever end? They can definitely be good… or bad. One would think that when the kids are grown and out of the house the “to do” list would shrink…….hmm
I write mine mostly in my day planner. The “someday” things are kind of like my bucket list, so I have them in a notebook. The list changes as I accomplish them, like skydiving at age 43, receiving my MBA age 48, now working on my doctorate.
I have a “work” to-do and a “home” to-do… the “home” to-do is divided into “lunch hour” and “after kids go to bed.”
Works for now… would LOVE a clip board and cute notebook…never though of the clip board with the compartment:)
Great Ideas Karen – I am just coming out of a month of chaos and lost track of my calendar and to-do list. I’m going to pull out my clipboard and get organized!
My challenge is managing to-do lists for work and home. Maybe I need another clipboard!
Count me in!
Always room for improvement in organization; I’m in!
The goal for me has always been to get organized. I start it and then it fails. Motivation is not an issue it is following a list. Maybe in the new year I can use a list more effectively. You have great ideas thank you.
For several months I have been going without an everyday list but things around my house were slowly getting disorganized, so starting last week I went back to making a daily list and I have seen an improvement.
I’m in – can always use more help being organized!
I am in! I always write notes here and there. Need to get more organized. Love the idea of clipboard with compartments.
To do lists are a way of life for me… Though I NEVER get the stuff on them done. I like the idea of separating into sections. Thanks
I’m in!
I’m in!
I start in a spiral notebook, using one page per day and transfer from one page to the next what wasn’t completed the day before. My secret to not feeling defeated is that I list the things I absolutely MUST do, crossing them off as I go, but the little things that never would make the list, I add after I’ve completed:) Sweeping the floor, putting away groceries, folding the laundry, etc. This way I know that even though my list wasn’t finished, it’s not because I wasn’t busy:)
Yes! I would love to figure out a better way to make my lists. I am currently working on this and trying new things each week. My master to-do list is at this point five pages long – full of projects. Then there is the daily to-do’s. And the things I don’t get to and then what? I really need help with this – but no time for further details – gotta get back to my to-do list and keep doing!
I actually quit making “to Do” lists a couple of years ago after figuring out that they were making me more stressful since my lists were too long and my days were too short. I like your idea of making three lists to help combat this. Thanks!
The only list I can be consistent with is my “to buy” list and I’m not very good with that. I’m so unorganized I can’t find bills and important papers after they come into my house; I need a total makeover.
VIA EMAIL: I so need organization!!!! My family just moved from NC to NY two weeks ago and I can’t decide if I’m coming or going!! My husband is a Baptist pastor and we moved north to start a church in the Buffalo, NY area. If ever I needed to be organized, it is now!!! We have 3 children, Leah is 11 and is in middle school, Lauren is 7 and in the 2nd grade, and Lucas is 17 months and full of energy. After you say a prayer for me, pick me to win the Wal-mart gift card!!!
Emily Williams
VIA EMAIL: Hi,
Yes, I am trying to get my life orgainized. I thought I was the ONLY one who would put 23 items in a list then only get 5 done and feel very very defeated. I am now an empty nester. X 4 years. I can’t believe its been 4 years. 3 grandbabies later too. But 4 years. I still have to REALLY think about groceries, meals and Saturdays. I am not used to (yet) just doing my own thing. Still working on that! With alot of prayers!!!!
Thanks,
KB
Definitely the inspiration I needed! The three list idea has hit home, and it will shortly replace the ever-growing jumbled list scrawled on a sticky pad on the refrigerator. I’m in!
I think I need to get back to list-making. I was quite the list maker for a long time but these last few months I have been just putting out the fires as they ignite, and constantly feeling like I’m 1 (or 10!) steps behind where I should be. Love your idea to have 3 lists. I’m definitely going to try that!
I am a big “to do” list maker. I’ve even been known to write something I’ve done on the list just so I could cross it off!
I am SUCH a major list maker! I have often thought I need a list of all my lists, LOL.. I make one master list, prioritize, break it down into smaller daily lists, prioritized, and meticulously cross off things as I do them. Like Tara H., if I do something not on the list i’ll add it and cross it off!!
I make a lot of really long lists and lose them – I SO like your ideas better!!! Thank you! Blessings to you, dear Friend!
I’m in. I could win a contest for most disorganized procrastinator but I want to be better!
I need help eternally being organized, everywhere in my life. I’m in!!
I’m in!
I love the highlighter idea! I am going to try implementing that. Lately, I’ve been cutting paper from the recycle pile in half and making a daily list on one of these scraps, roughly in the order I need to do things. I also have another list on one of those $1 pads from Michaels where I list everything for the soon or someday categories. I like the idea of a clipboard with storage. I am going to look into that! When I’m having a really organized week, I have a blank template I print that has a square to write a plan for each day on the left side and a list of things to do, things to buy, calls/emails to make, and bdays that week. This is a great reminder that I should go print that and see if I can get on track for this week!
I’m in.
this sounds awesome, I am a list maker. I will use anything available at the moment from napkins to to tp lol So this organizer would be a great help…..My frustration to much to do on my to do list….
My lists are a wild combination of work items and must-do personal stuff. Unfortunately, I tend to add more to the list than I mark off. My organizational skills are not the best, and have suffered even more as my kids grow and their activities (homework, sports, friends, etc.) increase. I like your ideas. Will need to try them!
I’m in. I’d love to get organized!
Was your post good timing! I was just thinking I need to sit down and write down everything I need to get done in the next month. You know, before the holidays arrive! Time is sure flying and I need to get busy!
My most productive time of the day is morning, so that’s when I tend to do my laundry, housecleaning, errands, etc. What I need to figure out is how to schedule in the bigger jobs/projects that have been sitting on the back burner and need to get done.
I’m thinking about blocking out one day a month and calling it “Project Day”. I would focus on a particular project (like cleaning out a closet, organzining half a year’s worth of photos, or going through all the papers on my desk) while my son is in school. I might try it this week or next and see how it goes.
Thanks for the encouragement!
I use an 8 1/2 x 11 dry erase board and list the major things i have to do by day for the week i.e. pick up granddaughter under Monday; meeting on Thursday; take mom to doctor Friday, etc. Then I make grocery lists or things I need to pick up from a store on a sticky note or paper to take with me. I also keep a dry erase board calendar on my frig to keep track of everything for the month. I like the dry erase because we can see the month at a glance. Using the dry erase boards also saves paper from going into the landfill. And of course I use Outlook calendar on the computer but I don’t have a fancy phone to access it when I’m not at home. Could you have a contest to give away a fancy phone
I also do a today, soon and someday list. I keep the someday list on a magnetic note pad on the side of the fridge and when I am bored and start staring at the fridge I try to be encouraged to work on a small project instead (organize book shelf, clean out desk, organize one drawer in the kitchen) I like to keep a cute spiral bound journal book, the kind you get at Michael’s in the dollar bin, and write my today list there, makes me feel like a professional…lol. Finally, I keep an index card by the phone that says, Things to Do while on the Phone. This way if I get into a lengthy chat and don’t need to put my feet up, I can do some small chores that don’t interfere with my conversation. If I don’t write it down, I never remember!
I love lists! I’m pretty sure God used a “to-do” list during The Creation! I’m in!
Oh I am a HUGE listmaker – I am constantly making “To Do” lists. the problem i have is I don’t have consistent place to keep my lists so they end up everywhere – in my car, at work on my desk, on the kitchen counter at home. I usually forget them somewhere and have to start my lists over. I’m the type that feels some sort of twisted pride and sense of accomplishment of being able to mark a task ‘off’ of my ‘to do’ list.
LOVE IT ~ I’m in!!!
Haven’t used a clipboard….but I use LOTS of Post-its!!!
When it comes to making a “to do” list for the house, I list each room and write down what needs to be accomplished in that area. This works great with my kids (ages 10 &13). For things that need to be done away from home, I use post it notes and stick to my planner that I keep in my purse. I am always willing to try something new that might help make it easier for me.
I am a big list maker – I love to cross things off as I get them done! Always need suggestions in the area of organization!!
I so need to get organized. Love your tips. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the type of clipboard you described. Maybe a trip to walmart nees to go on my list – if only I had one
I do make lists, but like to keep them short and projects possible. I can always improve though. Thanks for your ideas.
My homeschool to do list is my lesson plan book. Just switched it up this year, and the new system and book are working great so far! (We’re in our fifth week now!) My to do list for everything else is sometimes on my phone, sometimes on my hand, sometimes on some scrap of paper somewhere else. I like the idea of a clipboard! Thanks for the idea!
That compartmentalized clipboard sounds fabulous! I have such a hard time setting reasonable goals for myself. I live in frustration and “I’m not good enough for not getting fifty things done today.” Thank you for the tips!
I usually make my to-do list on the back of something that’s ready for the trash – back of an envelope, folded half sheet of paper, etc. And I have multiple notebooks, guess I’m too lazy to get one most of the time!
I’m in and that is all that I can say because I am to busy making lists that I don’t have time to do the things on the list. Help.
I’m in
My biggest problem area (and I have many) is paperwork. From the kids schoolwork to bills, catalogs and other correspondence.
I’m in!!!
I’m in!
I’m in!
I’m In!
I’m in
What a GREAT way of doing this! I’m going to give it a shot! Thanks!
please include me. thanks
Hey Karen
I need all the help I can get! I tend to make a todo list and then lose the list in the clutter on my desk.
Thank You, thank you, thank you for this post. Life has been crazy busy around here. Recently I have stopped making to do list and started praying God would allow me to get the important things done each day. It has helped me stress a little less but, there have still been things I have forgotten to do. Now I have a better way of organizing it all.
Thank you ! I desperately need help in getting my life more organized, I always over stress when I can’t get everything crossed off my to do list ,so I like the idea of breaking it down.
I just won your book ‘A Life That Says Welcome” …get this book ladies…add it to a gift basket with stuff to help ladies in your life…on my to do list this holiday season! Right now I am so overloaded…HS v-ball games, work, remodeling…last night I just wanted to cry after a hose on washer popped while we were outside scrambling to winterize pool before dark! All I thought about was the busy weekend ahead of fun stuff we had signed up to do and lack of time…then I finally thought this morning about wanting a more fun activity filled life this summer since we couldn’t afford a vacation away. Truly answered prayers even with a drying basement floor!
Just wanting to share the peace that is over me now! I’ll just keep saying “you can do it” !!! Thank you for much needed advice! Love and blessings! Carol
I love using scrap paper from junk mail to make my to-do lists! I’m the ultimate re-user at home, and have only recently learned how to throw away unused envelopes. It works for me because I’m extremely organized, but I’m always looking for new / better ways to stay on top of my to-do lists. My current process includes a stack of scrap papers stapled together with alternating pages of Mon-Tue-Wed and Thu-Fri-Sat on the next page. It works, but only because the order / priority is in my head or indicated by ** next to certain items. Obviously it’s not too burdensome today, or I wouldn’t have time to tell you about it. You’re a women so after my own heart (& mind), Karen. God Bless you in your ministry!
I’m in! Thanks.
I thought that when I retired I would do away with “to do” lists. Not true, since retiring I do not have an “organized” day. In some ways my to do lists have become even more important.
I am awful at making a “To Do” list. I love your idea on how to organize it. I’m going to give it a try.
Loved the ideas for making my list(s) more manageable… as a homeschooling mom with ADHD, this is a problem area for me. One of the things I plan to do this week is start a “prayers for” notebook, so I can remember all of the things/people I want to pray for. I will also be able to look back & see how God answers those prayers!
I love to do list! I make tons of them. I normally do it by the week & the narrow it down to by the day.
Gosh…that’s a cool way to categorize a to do list!
Mine is much simpler!
As in….simple minded!
I label the top either groceries, packing, or kids! Whichever it is I’m listing at the moment. And go from there.
Very genius, huh?
Sorry that’s all I got!
I make a “to do” list based on time. If I have a busy week, I make it realistic to my time. It may take me all week to scratch everything off, or it may just take a day. But the list keeps me on track.
I’m in!
IM in! (barely)
I’m so bad at keeping to do list. I right down things I want to get done and I still find myself jumping from one project to another. I just read a blog on scheduling. She suggested to keep it simple by giving a time line. Make morning, afternoon, and evening list and feel them in as needed. She says to keep it to just a couple of “to do’s” at first to give you that chance to accomplish them. Sounds good…I just need to follow through with it. I like your advice too! It’s time to get STARTED!!
I do well making and sticking to my to-do list at work but at home is much harder. I make the list but many times I don’t get to it as I should.
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Karen,
The Lord has really been speaking to me about organization lately. I do so much better when I make list at home and at work. Thanks for your suggestions.
When I noticed things were a little out of control on the organizational front, I knew it was time to check out what you would have to say. My hearts desire is to create a welcoming home and I know that everyone would feel more welcomed if I get my act together and get organized!
Dear Karen,
Praise God for the devotion for today. Indeed why don’t we treat the people closest to us sometimes with such respect and good attitude as we do others whom we don’t even know personally.
The people in the streets, in the mall, in the gasoline station and just the lowly street cleaner, are not even the people we share and help us out with our deepest needs.
Thank you for the reminders. It sounds “öuch” but just a little “whacking” would do if we so desire to be what God really wants us to be. Indeed it saddens our hearts when we mothers make our unfriendly tirades in our homes.
God bless you and this ministry. It’s such an encouragement to read the devotional and be in the writer’s shoes.
Idette
I love love love your ideas because I find that re-write the same lists over and over on paper that did not get mangled in my purse….and the “someday” is all mixed in with the urgent…thanks so much! Would love to try the clipboard idea! Thanks!