I’m going to let you in on a secret used by surgeons, fighter pilots, and rocket scientists…
What do they have in common? Checklists.
Yes, even some of the smartest people in the world rely on checklists to keep track of everything they need to do. There’s simply too much information to remember otherwise.
Checklists are the key to relieving some of the burden placed on our brains on a daily basis. We’re all familiar with the notorious “to do” list, but they can actually be used in a wide variety of situations. Here’s how checklists save you time AND stress.
Why Use Checklists?
Our lives are filled with so much information it sometimes feels like our heads will explode. We’re constantly trying to remember projects, deadlines, schedules, and so much more. In a single day we feel torn between 10 different priorities.
That’s where checklists come into play. Whether simple or elaborate, here’s why you should be using them:
- Eliminate Mistakes – No more worrying about forgetting an item or task. As you check off your list you’ll know you have every detail covered.
- Reduce Stress on Your Memory – Instead of attempting to remember long processes, write a one-time checklist for you to follow on autopilot.
- Minimize Procrastination – When you know exactly what you need to do in a series of simply steps, you have no need to procrastinate.
- Complete Projects Faster – Breaking down projects into a checklist allows you to track your progress and feel rewarded throughout the process.
The more we can remove thoughts and reminders from our minds and put them down on paper, the more mental capacity we will have left to tackle the tasks themselves!
How to Use Checklists in Everyday Life
You already use checklists in several places throughout your day: to do lists, grocery lists, and recipes. But here are a few more ways you can use checklists to simplify your life:
- Diaper Bag Checklist
- Home Cleaning Checklist
- Weekly Meal Prep Checklist
- Monthly Bill Paying Checklist –
- Annual Home Maintenance Checklist
- Travel Planning/Packing Checklist
- Family Meeting Discussion Checklist
- Holiday Planning Checklist
- Morning Routine Checklist
- Party Planning Checklist
Most of these are pretty self-explanatory. For example, if you have a baby in the family, you may like the idea of a diaper bag checklist. You can write it out on an index card, laminate it, and attach it to the inside of your diaper bag. Give it a quick look over before you go out and you’ll never have to worry about forgetting baby wipes again!
What would you use checklists for in your life? Share in the comments!