How to Tackle a Full To-Do List (and Stay Sane!)

You likely have a variety of goals you would like to achieve with some goals more urgent than others. 

If you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or paralyzed by what you want and need to accomplish, take a deep breath. There are some very doable, helpful habits you can adopt to stay sane, take action, and clarify your thoughts. 

You’ll enable yourself to knock out tasks (and reduce your stress levels!) if you: 

Make a List.

Write down your short- and long-term goals. Give yourself a comprehensive view of everything you need to get done this week. Making a full to-do list can help you gain a better handle on what you need to accomplish this month, as well as on how much time you should set aside to make progress toward your short- and long-term objectives. 

Prioritize.

You don’t need to have your entire to-do list on your mind at once! Instead, push yourself to give each task your full effort and attention. Allow yourself to focus on the immediate demands of each day. Reassure yourself that you will make time for the remaining items on your list.

Eat Some Food. 

If you are undernourished, any task will feel impossible. Fuel your brain and body with real foods and adequate protein throughout the day. Avoid over-caffeinating and eating convenient but nutritionally empty snacks! Likewise, beware of fast food: These quick options might seem like worthwhile timesavers, but the sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats these meals often contain will leave you with less energy later in the day, as well as health issues down the road. 

Give Yourself Enough Time.

Rushing through or toward something is never a good idea. Any task will be much more stressful if tackled under a time crunch. The point of your comprehensive to-do list is to make it easier to manage your schedule and give each activity adequate time and bandwidth.

Time Block.

Resist the urge to multi-task: Your brain is wired to focus on only one task at a time. Switching frequently between tasks will make it harder for you to focus and do your best work. If you group similar tasks together during your day, a habit known as time blocking, your brain will get into the groove, and you will get more done!

Get Help. 

If your plate is too full, you may need to divide and conquer! For example, don’t be afraid to let friends and family know when you could use their support with your kids, pets, or errands when your schedule feels full. You don’t want to push yourself to the point of exhaustion or illness; then you’ll really have a hard time getting things done!

Find more ways to knock out your goals and tackle your stress on the Syncis Money Blog today.