Life is hectic, and if we aren’t careful, the tasks and to-dos can get pretty overwhelming and chaotic. Writing lists is so important! While we have so many options for keeping track of our time commitments, sometimes the simple pen and paper method can be the most effective. In fact, studies show that when you write something down, it’s more easily retained, so you’re less likely to forget it!
I am a pen and paper gal. Perhaps that makes me behind the times, but I find that physically writing things down helps me organize my thoughts better. The process of writing is slower than typing, so I have time to really think about what I need to do and organize things in order of importance. I also find that I’m less likely to forget things when I’m writing the list by hand.
Where To Start?
But what about when there’s so much to do that you have no idea where to even begin? I’ve been there many times! When the to-dos mount up, it’s hard to make any sense of all the things swirling around in my head. It becomes very overwhelming, and I want to just stop doing anything! But in every case like this, I’ve always found that sitting down with pen and paper is THE best way to get past the overwhelm.
I call it brain dumping, which isn’t a new term by any means. There’s very little organization to a brain dump. It’s just me with a blank piece of paper writing down any and everything that pops in my head. The time for organizing it all comes later. The first step is to get it all out.
Once everything is there on paper, I can prioritize the list, delegate some things to others, and categorize everything. This process provides focus and direction and stops the “circling thoughts” syndrome that leaves me overwhelmed.
God has much to say in His word about managing our time well.
Ephesians 5:15–16
Look carefully then how you walk,
not as unwise but as wise, making the
best use of the time, because the days are evil.
1 Corinthians 14:40
But all things should be done
decently and in order.
Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead surely
to abundance, but everyone who is
hasty comes only to poverty.
Take a moment to think about how writing lists could be helpful to you, then take out a piece of paper and get started! You may find that the exercise is quite freeing.
A Helpful Start
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Your goals for the next 30 days. What do you need to accomplish? Remember to categorize!
- A list of books you’d like to read this summer.
- A list of curriculum that you’d like to buy for next year.
- A list of current projects that need doing, such as home improvement, outdoor/yard work, or even craft projects.
- A routine list. If you’d like to get your morning or evening more organized and intentional, a routine list might be just the ticket.
- A meal plan and grocery list are always a great way to get the week more organized or make a list of your family’s favorite meals.
- Make a gratitude list! Nothing lifts the spirit quite as well as a list of all the things we have to be thankful for.
- A gift ideas list can be very helpful for appreciating others.
- Make a seasonal bucket list! It’s a great way to make sure the season doesn’t pass you by.
- Make a “Stop Doing” list, and put “Getting Overwhelmed” at the top of it!
We have a special printable freebie for you to get started! Grab your printable Summer Bucket List by clicking here or on the image below.
Special thanks to Michelle W @
Life in the Nerddom for writing this Crew Article.
Don’t forget to visit all of the Homeschool Review Crew members who are sharing their tips, ideas, and encouragement for writing lists by clicking on the links below.
I’m pretty good at making lists…it’s crossing things off that I need help with 😉