confessions of a list maker
Sometimes during the day, I add things to my to-do list that I’ve already completed. That way, even though I may not have done the other stuff I had originally planned for myself, I still get the satisfaction of having a list with a bunch of tasks marked off. Definitely not the most effective way to plan the day, but it sure is gratifying.
Category: for my amusement, lists, quirks 3 comments »
February 16th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
I tend to add things to my list that I know won’t be difficult to do, for the very same reason. Crossing things off always feels like such an accomplishment.
Still, I find myself adding things that I wind up not doing. Then I feel guilty.
This is a constant struggle for me.
February 16th, 2009 at 6:34 pm
I’m a devout list maker as well. Usually I make lists at night so my brain can dump out all essential info before losing it all in slumber. I put easy things on there too…my number one is usually “Wake up.”
February 21st, 2009 at 10:49 am
Haha, I sometimes do the same thing, Stef. Don’t be surprised if you see “wake up,” “eat breakfast,” or “shower” topping off my list for the day. …What?! Those are crucial things!
And, Tristan, the guilt of undone tasks sucks. I’m really not a good example for that one, because I’ve been avoiding doing some really important things for a disgustingly long time now. (“Look for job.” “Decide where to move.” “Update resumes and write cover letters.” Basically, what I’m really saying is, “Figure out what I want to do with my life and do it already!”) You’d think the guilt (and social ridicule) associated with not getting them done would be enough to motivate me… apparently it’s not. I think there are times when guilt is useful for assessing the quality of your actions, but I’m beginning to understand that, usually, guilt isn’t a very productive emotion; I’m a more useful—and happy—person when I don’t give power to those feelings. …But it’s easier said than done.