The Power of a Done List
A Simple Tool to Reduce Stress and Boost Productivity
Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night wondering, Did I send that email? Did I lock the door? Did my assistant finish that task? That nagging feeling of uncertainty can be frustrating and stressful. Many of us rely on to do lists to keep track of tasks. However, those lists often get scribbled on sticky notes, buried in planners, or even tossed out once the tasks on the list are completed.
What if there was a better way to track your tasks as a whole? What if you know what you want to get done and what you have already gotten done? Let me introduce you to the Done List.
What is a Done List?
A Done List (or a To Done List, if you like a fun twist) is exactly what it sounds like. It is a running record of tasks you have actually completed. Unlike a traditional to do list, which disappears once tasks are checked off or discarded, a done list provides a tangible record of your productivity that can be referred back to when you wake up wondering if something had been completed.
Why a Implement a Done List?
✔️ Reduces Mental Clutter – Instead of wondering if you completed a task, you have a reliable reference to check. No more second guessing yourself or others. More importantly, no more doing a task twice or missing a task all together.
✔️ Boosts Motivation – Seeing a list of completed tasks reinforces progress and gives you a sense of accomplishment. This is especially helpful on days or weeks when you feel like you did not get much done, your list can be referenced and proves otherwise.
✔️ Creates an Accomplishments Log – Your done list can easily be converted into an accomplishments list, giving you a powerful resource to turn to when you are feeling unproductive and down on yourself. Instead of focusing on what still has to be done, you can remind yourself of everything you have done. This shift in perspective can bring positivity and a feeling of accomplishment especially on tough days.
✔️ Increases Efficiency – If you track your completed tasks digitally (I do this myself!), you can access your list anytime, anywhere. This makes it easy to confirm what has been done without wasting time searching for answers or losing sleep.
✔️ Provides a Productivity Record – A done list can help you analyze patterns in your workflow, identify bottlenecks, and improve how you plan future tasks.
How to Start Using a Done List
Choose Your Format – You can use a notebook, a notes app, or a digital document to track completed tasks. Whatever works best for you!
Log Completed Tasks – Each time you finish something, write it down. This can be a quick bullet point or a more detailed entry if needed.
Check Before Repeating – The next time you wonder if you completed a task, consult your done list instead of doing it again. If you choose a digital format you can do a simple search to see if the task has been completed.
Review and Reflect – At the end of the week or month, review your list. Turn it into a personal wins list that showcases your progress, productivity, and growth.
A done list is a powerful way to acknowledge your progress, eliminate unnecessary stress, and reframe your mindset. If you have ever found yourself questioning what you did during the day (or waking up at 2 a.m. in a panic), give this simple strategy a try.
Do you have a mile long to do list? Turn that list into a DONE list with Focused Work Days.
Are you ready to prioritize and complete the tactics that will really help you reach your goals?
Sign up for the upcoming session of Accountability Champions!
