Are Your Lists Working For You?

I don’t  know about you, but I am a list person.  Besides it being a helpful way to plan what needs to be done, there is also a sense of achievement by crossing off tasks that have been completed.

There are many types of lists and whilst planning is important, the outcome is actually what you are aiming to achieve, not just the tasks on the list.

Being a foodie, here is a kitchen example:

• The desired outcome – Have a clean kitchen.  
• The to-do list – Collect the dirty dishes, put them in the sink, wash and dry the dishes, pack away the clean dishes, clean the countertops and clear the table.

But there are many ways of achieving the result or outcome. Instead of the task list above you could just use the dishwasher and clear the table as you load this dishwasher.

To- Do Lists versus Outcome Lists

To-Do lists are a method of planning to achieve a certain outcome but can become endless if you focus too much on the specifics that need to be done.

Outcome lists focus on the desired result which can be achieved in various ways. They help you focus on the bigger picture.

Whilst there are many people will argue that one type of list is better than the other, it’s about balance. It is important to remind yourself where you are headed by using the Outcome list. The To-Do Task list is the steps on how you choose to achieve your result.

When creating your list ensure that you include your Outcome as well as your To-Do task list as it will remind you to focus on the bigger picture. As you create your to-do tasks, evaluate each task against your outcome to help focus on achieving your Outcome.

What kind of lists work for you?