We all want to be as efficient as possible. We have a lot to accomplish and our days are busy and fragmented as we deal with distractions and interruptions. How do we stay on course? One obvious way to be effiecent is to create To-Do lists. Problem with these lists is that we have too much to do and we often have difficulty keeping to them or, for that matter, accomplishing the tasks. This can become frustrating. I came accross a similar discussion the other day on the “Unclutter” blog with several creative ways to make your To-Do lists realistic and achieveable.

One commenter (Steph in Seattle) suggesting following the “M-A-S-T”. Make your To-Do lists:

Measurable: Create tasks that can be checked off when done and that are not vauge. Perhaps this means you need to break bigger tasks down in size? “I need to get to the bank and deposit the checks,” is more measurable than, “I need to do the finances today.” Finances could mean a number of things. Give yourself something measurable.

Attainable: Create tasks that are realistic. Do you really think “cleaning the kids rooms” is realistic or should it be something more attainable like “get the kids clothing put away”?

Specific: Very much related to the two discussed above but the point is to be specific about both your tasks and your goals.

Time-Limited: Give yourself realistic timelines for your projects. You will not be able to organize the basement in one day. Aside from that task being vauge, it is unrealistic. There are too many interruptions. Plan on interruptions and be realistic about the timelines.

We have a tendency to do it set unrealistic goals. Don’t fall into that trap. There is a lot that needs to be done and we need to figure out the only way it will get done is to manage these daily tasks in small stages. You will find the more To-Do list items you check off in a day the more accomplishment you will feel and the more effient you become.

There are alot of good products out there for managing your To-Do lists. Some people prefer paper and pencil, others prefer Apps on their mobile phones. I came across a web-based tool called “Tweeto” that I liked. Check out Streamline ’s To-Do List manager as well. I invite you to sign up, give it a try and get us your feedback on how we can help you get better organized.

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