How to Keep a TO-DO LIST: LESS Stress & MORE Productivity! BEST Time Management Tips Part 2

[@moderndays.oldways2609]

I'm trying so hard to ditch my phone addiction, so a paper planner is best for me. Plus I just love the feel of a good pen on great quality paper😉

[@teliciamckee9477]

Good food for thought there.

[@riversideacres295]

I hope I'm not the only one putting off my to do list to watch a video of Dawn telling me how to be more productive with my to do list. 😂

[@TheMinimalMom]

Hahaha, live this!!! ♥️

[@riversmouthtradingcompany2275]

You are absolutely not alone

[@varonicacrawford4371]

Riverside Acres You aren’t 😂

[@gladysanderson1351]

lol isn't this true!

[@familywellnessonabudget3108]

Exactly what I was thinking, but I am also nursing a baby, so I don’t feel quite as bad🤣🤣🤣.

[@gwenwruck]

So helpful! Love how you just keep things simple.. no hour long video or course to sign up for! thank you xo

[@Julie-ok5fr]

Here is what works for me😊 My To-Do list gives me peace, too! I used to write a big brain dump onto a piece of paper but that turned out to be a big messy piece of paper. Since journals and planners and apps don't work for me ( I need paper in hand ), I simply take one clean piece of paper and fold it in half and then, in half again. Unfold it, and there are 4 squares now. I then divide or prioritize my tasks into four categories titled: Home/ Pamper Phone/Online Discuss Errands Under "Home/ Pamper time" I might have: finish painting cabinets, finish knitted gift. Under the "Phone/Online" category I might have: schedule Dr. Check-up, email mom. Under "Discuss" I might have anything that needs attention that I need to talk to DH about. Under "Errands" I will add anything that is outside the home..errands of any kind. This takes that one, big brain dump page and prioritizes the things into categories. From there, I now take your "one most important task" and highlight that one thing for that day. Oh! And I keep this 4 sectioned list for one week and write out a fresh one each Sunday or Monday😁😁

[@skuperkatzmelagal]

Emily Dean, did you see this suggestion? It looks helpful...

[@sable747]

This was helpful because when I tried to make my categories it was getting too specific!

[@tauriankkf]

This is a great idea as well

[@lisasimeone2620]

Love this! Thanks for sharing!

[@kerry3710]

👍

[@gogogardener]

Thank you! I grabbed a notebook and started walking around the house. It may take me a week, but that's okay, it's got a plan... and the stress melted. So much easier to do something once priorities are made. In a bit, I'll walk around the garden and make that list too. I love your idea of listing categories of your roles. I've come close to what you're doing before, but that role category may be just what I need to stick with it.

[@sgia2154]

I seriously can’t miss any of your videos Dawn!! Awesome practical content as always!! 😁

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you so much Sherry, I greatly appreciate that!!! ♥️

[@ericabelisario4618]

Today I started clearing things after having been inspired by your videos and it felt soo good. Have been trying for a long time and just didn't know where to start! So I started in the kitchen. Besides clearing off cluttered surfaces in the kitchen, I made a computer list of all the items in the freezer with a space to take off what is being taken out. My husband was happy about this also and designated a space for the list inside a kitchen cabinet door. I Like your idea of doing this like peeling an onion! It takes the pressure off me thinking I have to do everything immediately! Your videos besides being educational are a lot of fun! Thanks for all you do! May you always be blessed!!

[@jillygirl2024]

I am a big To Do List writer and user. Today - I cleaned & sorted my Refrigerator Freezer ( only freezer I have ) which is FULL ! I even set aside a " USE FIRST " shelf to ensure I use things in a more timely fashion. The freezer list which I decorated with color pencils & items from each category is taped to the front of the refrigerator - Can't miss it ! And, I keep a pen in a nearby drawer so I have no excuse to not cross an item off.

[@thisanyfitlife912]

I just found you about a month ago and really love how genuine you are and how you share all the different ways you've tried to achieve your daily goals and priorities. I'm really excited to put this into action. I am a list person and having the categories with the top priorities make so much sense, along with the mind dump. I either make a list that is too long or have 1 on the fridge and one in my planner and again get overwhelmed. Thank you so much!!

[@varonicacrawford4371]

Clipboards, YAY! I can’t wait. Your videos are changing my life for the better! Thank you! Your videos with your sister a wonderful too! Tell everyone hello.

[@belindaulibarri2260]

I just love your tips and organization skills. I am at the point in my life where I want to go minimal, but we have a pretty big house and it is full of SOOOO much stuff! It is really overwhelming. I have already gone through some of it and tried the Konmari Method, but my husband is resistant and doesn't think our house is cluttered. You have given me so much motivation and I find I am repeating your saying about everything that comes into our house is something I have to manage! I had never thought about my stuff that way before but it makes perfect sense! Thank you for ideas and videos!

[@jessicaderstine4061]

Tiny steps tip: I started by clearing out drawers that affected no one but me. I also did o e tiny step at a time and kept it super tidy to prove I could do it and keep it. It slowly grew to take over my kitchen. Then the bathroom. Then the kids bathroom. Then another cabinet...

[@belindaulibarri2260]

@@jessicaderstine4061 I have most if my personal stuff, although I am ready for round 2! It is the main living space that needs decluttering.

[@hollykbae5231]

I grew with others - you must focus on your own self being decluttered, and be content. Your minimalism will likely brush off on other household members. Talk positively about your own adventure with it!

[@charityfaith1474]

I’ve watched this video before…but I definitely needed to hear it tonight! I’m beginning a new chapter in my life. My youngest is a senior in high school and is now living with his dad. I’m in the middle of moving to a smaller place. I am needing to changes the ways I use my time. Thank you for this!

[@debrahiers1073]

My brain dump pages are old lesson planners from teaching with 20 boxes per page, one task per box. I put a very satisfying corner to corner X over each box when the task is complete. Shared idea with a ladies group and spatial oriented others have enjoyed. Am a new subscriber, and appreciate your shared creative organization journey. Thank you so much.

[@annp5448]

oh my gosh this has been happening to me for a long time! i think abt what i want and need to do while im at work but when i get home or have my two days off i am exhausted just by thinking of what i want and need to do!!!! then i take a nap. im single but by not doing anything i feel lazy, anxious, overwhelmed and exhausted and a failure! course i just found ur videos that i had subscribed to awhile ago and now im spending time watching to hopefully get me going! u r so right abt low energy!

[@vanessarolph3532]

I used to be a PA and found setting up routines and keeping a diary most beneficial. Anything financial is priority and avoiding the computer for shopping unless needing stationary supplies. Love Dawn's ideas as she is working in a simple but strategic manner! I need help with finding a new job so many job ads are not appropriate or in the area I live so any suggestions would be good. Multi tasking can work well and loving the 5 second idea as low energy. Notebook and a pen works for me but I love the clipboard ideas. Busy today with decluttering hard to get started as doing it mostly on my own but trying every day to do one thing to make a difference. Love your channel.

[@gracecopeland3208]

I love Google keep...it is my brain! I use it for so many things (to do lists, maintenance lists, birthday lists, websites to read later, recipes, reminders, brainstorming a topic, anything I need to remember!). I really like that I can archive the notes I don't need so I can just pull up what I need to see. I did recently switch my shopping list to todoist because I can get that to coordinate with my Google home....it is to convenient to just say what I need and have it added to my shopping list. Love this video because it has given me several ideas to try. Thanks!

[@tedilojewski9607]

Hi Dawn! I know this is an older video, but I just discovered you and love watching your videos. After listening to HOW you plan your day, I wonder if you have tried the Planner Pad system - it is exactly what you do. Up at the top are the brain dump categories. Underneath, funnel the categories into priorities for each day of that week. Appointments for each day follow below the singular focus/priority to-do's for each day. What I like about the Planner Pad is you can see an entire week at a glance. It is awesome and I have used this system for years. I have tried other planners and always come back to this one. Thanks for your videos; they are awesome!

[@raymondblaquiere9137]

Get the big things done is a great win suggestion . Grouping sections like household job, and self prioritizing, is a great suggestion as well. To admit that these lists are circular and will never end is enlightening. Thank you.

[@susanproctor3247]

I have found having them on my phone is good so I have it with me when I go out, but I get great satisfaction out of drawing a line through things as I get them done. I deal with depression anxiety a lot and i have to force myself some days to just do one thing on my list, then I usually feel good that I got something done so I do more. I also tend to forget things really bad and feel like I didn't do much this month or whatever, but having that list of stuff that I kept to look back at really helps me. I look back at a month or two and really feel good about myself and all I am doing.

[@sarahr7279]

Thank you for reminding us to give a thumbs up at the end. I usually forget and I'm always so happy/ grateful for the content that I'm happy to give you a thumbs up to support your channel.

[@libraz83]

whatever it takes I absolutely Loove that she ends it with that! It's Such a Simple Great Signature!! Simply Brilliant 😂 Like Her!

[@ZuSim]

I wish you could make a video about the Keep app. I like how organized your tasks are. So simple and clear. I can see you have dates for the specific important task, could you elaborate more about this? Where do you store everything else (not so important tasks)? Under a specific category? Like Real estate, Household...? Or do you have other List? And what about those days? Does it work with google calendar? I tend to over-complicate things so your point of view would be great. ❤️

[@conniesoares157]

Love seeing the additional video that shows you and son at computer and how he is mimicking you by listing paper then writing again...so cute! Your videos are so helpful!

[@marilyngoure9526]

[@carolbiggs3233]

Great words of wisdom! I have to share with you this little story. I have been decluttering my own house and have gotten to embrace the minimalistic living style. My husband loves that too. So we leave our home each January to get away from the Mountain Cedar and go to an area without it. But the house we are renting is sooo cluttered it is driving me crazy! And dust everywhere. While I love getting away, you have helped me create a home that when it is time to go back I will really be looking forward to minimal work, minimal cleaning, and feeling more healthy in my own home. Thanks!

[@suebrown1759]

I love your suggestions on this video! One thing I may add for people like me with short term memory problems is a white board that is eye level and I write my to-do list on it and see it every time I walk by it. I make sure to erase things as I do them. Thanks so much for your videos! They are so helpful.

[@abrareads]

Your one main thing idea has really resonated with me, and I am implementing it at home and work. I am also recommiting to setting my desk back to neutral before I leave at the end of day.

[@varonicacrawford4371]

ABRA Dodson is there a video on her channel on setting your desk to neutral? It sounds like something I need to do at the end of my teaching day

[@abrareads]

@@varonicacrawford4371 I don't think Dawn has talked about it, but I have heard it other places. I am already feeling more productive when I get to work and am just able to start instead of dealing with the mess I left the day before. I also start my to do list for the next day so I know my one main thing the next day.

[@varonicacrawford4371]

ABRA Dodson awesome! I will research it. Thanks

[@WendyWzOpinion]

I literally stopped mindlessly scrolling facebook and shopping on amazon to watch part 1 and part 2 of to do. YOU HAVE SAVED ME TODAY!!!!!! Thank you so much for sharing this stuff. You have no idea how much I needed this right now. Seriously. There aren't enough words...

[@PahlaB]

The household tasks bog me down, too! I love the idea of just having a time on a certain day that I know they'll all get done. I'm loving these organization and productivity videos! Thank you!

[@jenhartnett-orser5242]

Trello has been a savior for me!!!! It is SO versatile, links to calendar, and google drive, and has 'checklists' which give me BIIIGG dopamine hits! Plus it's on desktop and mobile so i can access it literally anywhere!!

[@koala2464]

This was the best organisation video by far. Especially the tip about emails. Thank you.

[@autumnsea7848]

Thanks so much Dawn. I'm in sunny Sussex (England) and love how positive, joyful and encouraging you are. I haven't yet found a 'to do' list system that I know I can rely on but looking forward to giving this one a try as it definitely looks better than everything I've used so far. God bless you, your sister and your families!

[@jillt.3195]

This is just what I needed! I have been paralyzed looking at my to do list! I'm going to give this One Thing and A list priorities to see if it helps me not feel so overwhelmed. Thank you!

[@lisahale6593]

Dawn, thank you for another wonderful video! I’ve been using Google Keep for a few months and I absolutely love it! I have it on my desktop and (obviously) my phone. I love colors so I color code the days of the week and I keep them pinned and in daily order. I can easily look and see what I have scheduled each day. I use check boxes most of the time. Whenever we have a family party/event planned, I note the menu and anything else about the event, then I archive it - for future reference. It’s really a wonderful tool! I have a paper planner as well, and I love buying/downloading/printing really cute pages for it, but then I don’t use them. 😂🤣 I guess I like the idea of a paper planner, more than actually using it. But I do have crazy love for post-it notes. ❤️ I love your suggestions! TFS.

[@HaniMNasr]

What I love about your videos is that they are concise yet full of useful info.

[@ArtRaveStudios]

Loved your videos on paper organization and this one too! It’s the first week of school and with my 4 kids, all in different schools, I have TONS of papers. Tackling my paper area that I’ve neglected all Summer is my goal, and IM SO GLAD I WATCHED YOUR VIDEOS FIRST. I can now throw so much of it away without confusion or guilt. I have a super simple file system that won’t get overwhelming, and an easy to manage inbox. Here I go ! I’ll keep you posted on the results.

[@katherine5354]

I always love your videos. Everything you post has always been relevant and either major things I have been looking for solutions for or underlying things that as you say, "cause low-grade anxiety." I love your channel! I use a notebook for my to-do lists. I like your idea for the different categories and think of it as revolving. This will help me re-edit how I am going about my lists. Thanks for your tips!

[@tanya2269]

I have a cleaning schedule in my head that I do every day. I been meaning to do a "to do list" just so I can say "I accomplished something today". I think that many women over look that and think "I didn't get nothing done today". But today I started and thought "this is my daughters last day of school". So I pampered myself for a couple of hours :)

[@scrappenstance]

I just recently switched from using ALL the paper planners to a combination of Google Keep + Calendar. I keep ongoing household 'to do' projects (and recipes, meal plans, etc) in Keep, but schedule other time sensitive priority to do's as Reminders in a shared Calendar. I also keep a print out of the Google Calendar at work to write down tentative plans, keep track of vacation days, etc.

[@kimberlyn5587]

I am SO happy you posted this. I have tried a lot of different planners as well, this is the easiest!

[@tignim231]

I have a calendar on my fridge with large squares and I keep my list to 3 items in a day, and some days my calendar is empty. I usually make my list the night before. 💛

[@heathern9051]

I used to be so more organized when I worked outside the home. Thanks for the ideas. I keep try different things, but I haven't found the perfect solution yet.

[@hingsty1]

I write my to do list on scrap pieces of paper and then write priorities on sticky notes. It’s very satisfying for me to get to throw it away when I’m finished!

[@martaartmeier6361]

Great idea! One question: where do you keep the to-do list in order do not lose it?

[@jeremyrussell800]

@@martaartmeier6361 I just tuck it in my paper planner! I do use a small paper planner to write down dates, but I really try to keep my to-do list separate. It's also nice to not carry around a big notebook with past to-do lists.. just my preference!

[@martaartmeier6361]

@@jeremyrussell800 Thx!!!

[@familywellnessonabudget3108]

I love this idea!

[@hingsty1]

LOL- I'm just now reading this. I'm new to KZbin and I guess I posted this from my husband's account!

[@triciamosolf4183]

Just recently found your channel. Love these last 2 videos on TO-DO lists. I'm going to try and implement these. What you said in both videos really resonated with me. I can totally relate. I have so many TO DO's and so many lists! I get overwhelmed and end up watching youtube videos or shopping on amazon and only getting 1 or 2 minor things on the lists done -- never anything significant. And then, I end up adding 5 more things to the list. I rewrite my lists often but there's soo much, it's overwhelming. I think your tips will totally help me. Now, I just have to do it. Thanks so much!

[@rhemmadi]

Best tip for me...to keep myself motivated... specially as I am a care giver & having multiple imp projects committed too... struggling as each role has “the one thing”... & projects with subtasks & sub sub tasks🙈 still learning but yes ur videos r motivators for me.. so thank u very much & god bless u all

[@kgdc1001]

I watched your vid yesterday and today I did to do I had been procrastinating for days and it literally took me 5 min ugh! Will be doing this daily! Thank you.

[@paulaschaefer3982]

I love the "Just One Thing" idea! I, too, am an out-of-sight ,out-of-mind girl. Thus the stacks were born, but I still couldn't see each thing in the stacks. Handling mail ASAP is huge. Prioritizing my day is helping. But the JOT idea is going to help my procrastination/overwhelm/self-discipline. Gonna start today! Thx for your honest approach. It's helped me see these traits in myself & be willing to face them. Blessings!

[@whatzupLizzy]

I use the apple notes with a special todo list for the brain dump and the calendar for the 1/a list. It works for me to calendar the time. 😊. Looking forward to the hair tutorial ❤️

[@rhondawilliams2140]

Just download that google keep app. Game changer. I love my planner, but when I am out in about, don’t like to pull my planner, when I am in hurry. Now I can use this app on a go and write it down in my planner when I am at home.

[@countingchange8677]

Thank you sooo much I’ve been having trouble keeping up with my lifestyle since my first born. Now I’m expecting a second working full-time from home and working towards my masters degree. Whatever can ease stress is necessary: currently using the EC Planner.

[@kitkatz9984]

Wow...thank you...im going to do your tips...great!!😄

[@debbieachatz2870]

I was always a big list maker but I recently started google Notes and it has changed my life. It has simplified my planning and focus and I don't have scraps of paper everywhere!

[@joanshomeph7603]

This is great! I have my headache for too many ideas circulating in my head! Love this video!

[@grammadebbie]

Google Keep is My go-to app! It is simple, but can be used in so many ways! You can link it to your desktop computer to view and edit with a keyboard, and then see changes on your phone. You can add pictures to Google Keep list (great for shopping lists or event invitations, etc.) I have a to do list for Thanksgiving, Christmas, & 4th of July that I archive when the holiday is over, and bring back the next year (yes, I do nearly the same menu again and again). I'm starting a gift list so I remember how much I spent on gifts for my grand kids & others for birthdays, etc. so I can be more consistent. Again, the list is archived until needed. It is an amazing app!

[@limetrooper7939]

I use a planner with to do list... A brain dump is a must for me just so that I can go to sleep at night…For me there’s something so gratifying about writing it on paper and crossing it off

[@motherhenn8850]

The clipboard tip is fantastic. My desk is always messy because if I put something away, I will not think to bring it back out again. That's a problem so nice I am a homeschooling mom, and I do research for an archives. People depend on me.

[@Katy_living_simply]

Can you do a video on how you keep up with cleaning, deep cleaning or what kind of schedule you follow? As a minimalist its a bit different than always keeping up with the clutter and such. It's not a remedy cleaning more of a preventive cleaning. IF that makes sense.

[@stephaniek5433]

Yes, please!

[@laurahanson5179]

I’ve been following Flylady Kat and using her system for home management and cleaning. It’s been working great! It’s nice knowing I have a routine and a plan for tackling everything from groceries, meal planning, bill paying, laundry, errands, and deep cleaning.

[@brandymcgouirk3223]

Yep, I agree with the last comment about Flylady. The Flylady system covers everything and can easily be modified for your needs.

[@ginamcgrew9955]

I've been following a modified "Fly Lady" routine that keeps our house at an acceptable level of cleanliness at all times. It has helped to declutter firsy, bc you can't clean clutter. I just adapt her ideas to fit my home/time. You could go super coo coo on the system, but I keep to a simple daily routine. Maybe someday I'll get more hard core...oh who am I kidding? 😂😂

[@laurahanson5179]

Gina McGrew that’s great!! that’s why I like Kat! I tried the system years ago, but it felt complicated and I didn’t understand all the various components. I feel like Kat makes it simple!

[@elcehl]

Still simplifying!! I am visual also. Thank you, you are a great teacher

[@cocoabean321ify]

I use google Keep as well but recently I bought a clipboard padfolio and print out weekly calendars from my google calendar and put them on my clipboard to track everything for my business and have a separate list for household/family. It works well for me to see the entire week ahead of me and I can jump to the next week or 2 as well.

[@poolahpot]

Now that i’m 50 i cannot do a “daily” type planner. Time just passes so rapidly lol. I have now switched to a “monthly” to do list. One big page. One month at a time. I get to it when i get to it. A month passes like a week now. It’s really strange. I remember when i was a little girl my great grandma used to tell me that for her a year just seemed like a few weeks....i am finally beginning to understand. Funny thing too....these women didn’t “need” planners whatsoever. They just did what had to be done! 😉 My planner is now a 4x6 spiral memo book - 80 sheets - 88 cents! For now, all of my filofax planners are collecting dust. (i might do a filofax return, but for now the super minimalist “planner” works well for this perimenopause brain 😁)

[@lindamast1865]

I'm 76 yrs old and a full time caregiver for two family members; my days are pretty busy with routines for them; so, a master list works for me and except for particular "have to do" such as appts. medical necessities, meals, laundry, etc. any other tasks have to be worked in when I have the time and energy. It's challenging but I agree, time changes things

[@TheJoyfulEye]

yes! perception of time changes with age --- i m 66 and if i blink an eye the month is gone

[@sable747]

Hi! I love this topic as I get overwhelmed with big lists too. In fact, this is kind of a hallmark trait for those with ADHD. Every organizing book says make a list of all that’s in your head and you will see it’s not that big. Then prioritize said list in a systematic way. Then the creative type comes up with two pages and wants to crawl back in bed! I like the way you just take one thing at a time!

[@lissagriffin5689]

This video was so timely for me. Thank you again for the inspiration and encouragement! These are great tips.

[@jenniferb.7250]

Dawn this was such a helpful video! Not starting my day with e-mail was a game changer for me and productivity! Such a good idea about batching the household tasks for a block of time, I need to be better about that! I would love the check out the last planner you shared.

[@redsmom6]

Thanks for this! I’ve tried all these methods too but now I can finally give myself a daily goal and come away feeling good about a day instead of lamenting that I got nothing done. I LOVE your channel!❤️

[@mariacastillo3090]

Dawn thank you so much for your informative content. I love watching your videos. They calm me down and there’s definitely a light at the end of my clutter. ❤️

[@annp5448]

i use lists on my i phone for my to buy lists: all separate: groc , walmart, lowes or home depot, healthfood store etc. it really helps. i have a todo list master on it and a daily todo list but dont use those much. just the to buy lists.

[@bonniezitting6671]

I love simple, simple... could you do a video on how you schedule housekeeping activities? Housecleaning etc?

[@karolina2406]

I finally subscribed and marked the notification bell! You're awesome! I've watched so many of your videos and love them ❤

[@larabrown8549]

Love you videos Dawn, i have been following you for about 8 months now and I love your positive outlook and simple ways to do things. I have been trialing your meal planning method. I have fallen off the wagon a few times but it does make things easier. I Use Trello to do my brain dump and then use my A5 diary to put on my focus and what I need to do that day. With all the different methods I have tried, it is simple and it works. Basically the same as your method. I have been doing this since the beginning of the year and its easy to stick with and manage.

[@alexamunoz7943]

I like to use a cute magnetic dry erase board. I put it on a wall that I see first thing when I wake up on the way to the kitchen. Right next to it is a hanging calendar. Hate the phone reminders/calendars since they are out of sight and mind. It is easy to go out and scrawl the things to do at night when I can’t sleep because my brain won’t stop prioritizing. It is also helpful to jot down quick appoint info to be transferred to the paper calendar and erase. Makes for less paper clutter.

[@lb9549]

We use Google keep for our grocery list, my husband and I share it with each other and love how it updates in real time. So if for example he plans on going to Costco after work I can update the list throughout the day rather than text him every time I think of an item to add. I prefer my to do list on paper but I need that 5 second journal! Lately I'm just using random pieces of paper and it's not so motivating... love your videos as usual!!!

[@bitrudder3792]

OmniFocus 3 (for iPhone and iPad) is my go to right now. Based on GTD, but far more powerful. SO helpful for dealing with everyday things simultaneously with ongoing and intermittent projects without losing track. It allows you to find tasks according to context using tags. It integrates my calendar with any tasks that are absolutely due today. On that same page, I can choose to view anything tagged with the tag that I choose. I can toggle between different tags. I can view all tags in the tag section. The search function pulls up everything with your keyword. I can integrate photos and notes to help me accomplish the task at hand. I can create projects and adjust the order of the steps easily. I can view the whole project at one time, I can view all groups of projects at one time. I can also look simply at the next action of one or more projects if I have some free time and want to move something forward, but I’m not sure which is the easiest one to do., I can ask to see the Next Action” only. If the project only allows me to do things in a sequence, I can set it up that way. If the project involves tasks that can be done in any order, I can set it up that way, also.It’s easy to find overdue tasks. When you want to just create a task without adding details, it goes into your inbox and you can add the projects or tasks later. You can do repeating tasks with lots of customization. You can have reminders set sent to your phone as banners. If you see an article or a picture or a video online that you want to complete at a later time, you can forward it to OmniFocus as a task. If there is an email you need to answer and you want to make sure you don’t forget it, you can email a reminder to OmniFocus end it becomes a task. In the premium version, you can create customized perspectives That allow you to see only what is most helpful for you to get through your day, or part of your day. You can choose to group things or not group things. You can order things by due date, by the name, etc. Using keyboard shortcuts makes it super easy to use naming conventions to replace tags. It takes a little planning to use it effectively, but there are plenty of people online who offer their ideas of what works for them. Mostly, don’t put a date on something that doesn’t really have to be done by a certain time. And if you want to use the search function, which is a fast and easy way to find things, pay attention to how you name a task… Include the name of the person involved, maybe use a prefix like “call:” and search for tasks using the call: so that you don’t get every single task with the word “call“ in it, just for tasks that involve calling people. There are lots of helpful tips available.

[@regenaguinn]

I use a spiral notebook. List blocks by “ AM,PM,and then list after supper. I do this daily after my Bible study/prayer time. As I do them in the notebook too, it’s just a natural thing to make that step next. 😊

[@danetteh07]

I use the iBloom planner and have for about 4 years. I totally love it!

[@reneecase5324]

Sunday basket system from organize365 is amazing!! I don’t have all the todos swirling around my head anymore, nor do I fill guilty that I didn’t get 17 things done. I plan my week, pick out a realistic number of urgent tasks, and schedule them. It’s not just a file box- it’s an auxiliary brain!

[@choraldecker2630]

I greatly appreciate your Videos...I have trouble in time-management, as well as in separating and sorting / Tossing Out! Thanks for Your Tips!

[@PeedyPeter]

I love the physical act of writing, therefore I use my (very minimal not fancypancy) bulletjournal to jot down all my thoughts, my journalling, brain dumping and write out my monthly & weekly outlay, followed by my dailies (daily todos, incl a single priority). Next to this I jumped in to GTD and use OmniFocus on my devices. so combination of paper with my Bulletjournal (for everything and anything), and electronically with OmniFocus (Todo) & Fantastical (Agenda) on my devices to manage my time, days, and thoughts (GTD style).

[@aizhan229]

You are very inspiring and calming. Thank you for sharing

[@thebrydons7777]

Love your channel Dawn 💕I use Google Keep for notes but mainly use Wunderlist for my to do list , where you can set reminders etc add notes and feed it into google calendar.

[@kimandmikedial9582]

Thanks for mention Wunderlist, going to try!

[@leahstanleigh4431]

I’m new here and loving your videos! I’ve been struggling to minimalism our home for a year now and you’ve motivated me to get back at it! I run home daycare and have two small children (3 & 5) so it’s a daily struggle. lol. I’ve been bullet journaling and using a paper planner for a couple of years and scheduling tasks has been a huge productivity boost for me. The to do list is overwhelming! But having 2-5 items scheduled on a single day is manageable. I think I need to categorize my to do list though. I’ve recently embarked on a new project (second business that I hope to become my main focus). Your tips will help me to get that going.

[@barrysparksofficial]

Hi Dawn! These videos have been so helpful!! I like it how you've covered all the most recurring struggles👍♥️ Thanks for the love you put into making them! It shows🤗

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you, I greatly appreciate that!! ♥️

[@beckyharding6571]

I actually paused this video to go and set up my lists on Google Keep! I've used it for note taking and shopping lists but hadn't thought of using it for my to-do lists in that way. Looking forward to trying it tomorrow!

[@UtahRoadbase]

LOVE Google Keep! I use it to manage my paper inventory especially since I'm a compulsive note taker. Google Keep allows me to type in all my notes and lists and eliminate scraps of paper. I have things I use for work, book lists, lists of gifts, websites, and on and on. It's nice because you can search all of your notes and lists for a keyword or an idea AND you can download your notes to print them (I believe) if you want a paper copy. :D Of course, I never considered using it for my to-do lists and I LOVE your system! I started it right after watching your video and I had it up on my computer all day. I was using a Calendar appointment each week on Monday at 9 am that, after 3 years, I just ignore every week. :/ I just created a label called "To-do list" and I created 5 lists with that label: Today's priority, Today's A-list, Today's touches (people I want to reach out to), Work brain dump, and Household brain dump. One question: I noticed you dated your priority and A-list lists. Do you keep them for any reason? Do you clear your lists out as you check things off or do you just delete and re-create the priority and A-list lists? It looks like today's A-list won't all get done today so I'm just going to add one thing and roll it on for tomorrow. But I'm not sure if i need to keep or delete the "completed items". Thanks for your help Dawn! Great idea!!

[@anjuwadhwani8100]

Never a dull moment with u . Glad i found yr channel

[@am7241]

I’m still using paper /planner for my to do lists but I’m all over the board with being consistent and prioritizing it. :(I’m trying to use my phone to log appointments so I don’t forget them, birthdays etc. I like what you do about picking just a few things ...

[@jean6061]

So glad to see that plain planner included with the others! I use an 8.75 in x 5.75 in 1 subject notebook, college ruled. That's worked well for me and I appreciate the price!

[@poolahpot]

LOVE YOUR CHANNEL👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️

[@Pocahontas502]

Love this video...my to do list is on a small spiral notebook that i can carry with me in my work bag.... and i try to also keep it on my phone just in case i dont have my bag on hand... i kinda go back and forth checking to see what needs to be done.. working on having only one 😊

[@deniselogeot3784]

I would love to learn how you keep personal finances simple! I find budgeting and tracking expenses complicated!

[@humbleorgins4125]

Hi! I use an app called spending tracker. (It has a brown wallet with paper money in it) I just started by recording all our expenses in a month, adding categories if I needed them. That really helped me see where everything was going. Then I started 'budgeting' by estimating how much each bill or catergory would cost. I did a zero based budget, so if we had any leftover money at the end of the month, I either put it in a catergory(like gifts, or entertainment) or I put it aside for savings. That way we never/rarely overspent. It actually took about 3 months to get everything ironed out and working well and I continue to work with it. But it was definitely worth it. I'd be interested in hearing from the Minimal Mom on finances and budgeting too, because I always want to know if I can be doing something better, even though I'm really happy with our financial planning and budgeting at the moment.

[@deniselogeot3784]

sniper thanks for sharing!!

[@lindawinters6285]

I really like Ramsey's Every Dollar app! It's free; it's simple, flexible, and straightforward!

[@lynnchong924]

My favorite to do list video!!! Thank you. I cannot keep up with the other systems because they are often too complicated.

[@denisehooper2035]

I don't want to write things twice so I divide the page into 4 categories (like getting things done), then brain dump, then number within category (Franklin Covey). Then go and do! Not as tidy as yours but gets me going faster.

[@skuperkatzmelagal]

Denise, can you give a visual example, please?

[@denisehooper2035]

@@skuperkatzmelagal I would if i knew how! Sorry!

[@lauracooperrealtor2669]

I took your ideas and put the app I already used for grocery list (shared with my hubby), Wunderlist, to work! Wunderlist seems to do what you use Keep for but you can easily move several items in different “buckets” to the “A” list readily, etc.

[@Mrs.J.D.B]

Awesome tips! I like idea of picking one thing to make sure to get done in a day. I definitely put off the big tasks and they all pile up!

[@seahorsenplanners]

This video was awesome. Thanks so much for turning me on to this app and showing me how to implement my to do list into my daily routine.

[@Fantastico72]

Hi Dawn great video. I consider myself a very organized person, I love pads and keep them for different themes but it’ll then that becomes overwhelming and even win all my cute pads and journals I still find posts on pieces of paper in the kitchen table for a quick hit down, defeating the book purpose. I will rewatch the video and see if implementing some of yours work for me. Live listening to you, before knowing you are a realtor my guess would have been a teacher. You’re so easy to listen to!!!

[@Fantastico72]

Sorry for the typos 😀

[@springrain777]

I appreciated this, especially because i have for such a long time been wanting one of those pretty inspiring planners &yet just don't think it would work for me. Nowive seen this video i can use (all those half used) notebooks i now have because im decluttering!😁. Win win. Thank you so much !

[@ginamcgrew9955]

Excellent explanation and practical tips! Thanks Dawn👍 as a SAHM sometimes my days feel like they run together and besides loving my kids and keeping them alive😉, I feel like I've accomplished so little for the exhausted state I end up in!! I should have more to show for all my effort, lol. I can see how the 1 thing focus will help me feel more accomplished🙌

[@ArtyAntics]

I love the 5 second journal too, I have hacked it to be a mix between your method, Mel's method and things I need to focus on for my mental health. I think this is my fave video of yours so far!

[@janetmalone9629]

Awesome video! I have sooo many planners that I’ve tried and quit using after a very short time because they just felt like too much work. I always seem to resort to a plain old notebook.

[@fenlandfhs4987]

I used to have a diary at work, home and calendar - and to put all 6 kids events into one was crazy - so I now have just one calendar, and put events onto post it notes - then add them to calendar when I not buzy, so less events missed - which is always good

[@peggyperkinson9798]

Please address our food and supply problem. I’m having to stock pile items due to not being able to find them each week. Online ordering isn’t working either. Last 2 weeks I’ve had to visit 4 different stores to get our needs met. 4 adults here, 1 on disability. Hate having extra “stuff” but what choice do we have. Thanks, you’ve made a big difference in our lives. I thought I was weird lol and felt guilty but you’ve given me the courage and encouragement to live a simpler happier lifestyle. God bless you!