To-do list; a list of tasks that needs to be completed. Now that’s the definition by the book. But if you ask yourself, does it ever gets completed? How many times have you felt that before you could reach the bottom most task, new tasks have already begun to be added? Hence this list seems to never end. And this constant influx creates a feeling of chaos rather than accomplishment. This cycle of endless tasks is overwhelming and that is why many a time our checklist adds to stress.
So it’s better to let go off to-do list obsession and adapt a more fluid approach to your tasks and responsibilities. Make plans that are manageable and most importantly, flexible.
Plans are important but flexibility is essential
Yes, plans are must. They are guide map for your efforts and road map towards your goal. But the key to a successful plan is adaptability. A room for flexibility for any unforeseen circumstance or even a shift in your end goal. People change, priorities change, expectations change and not to mention our environment is constantly changing. Thus a plan should also be dynamic. You need not always stick to a plan; sometimes, just let things happen on their own. Allow some spontaneity, discover new perspectives. Life is unpredictable, so sometimes let things unfold organically. Let the power of serendipity guide you towards paths you have never considered before.
Plan for future but stay in the moment
Plan is the key for an aspiring future but mindfulness is the key to savour the present. Mindfulness engage you with the present, savouring the little joys that each day brings. While it’s important to envision where you want to go and plan accordingly; but what is the point if your forget to fully experience the life you are living right now? Going forward, your future is going to be your present right? And if you haven’t learned to embrace your present, then what is the point of working so hard for a better future? If you haven’t taught yourself to enjoy the beauty of today, what is the point of fore-sighting your tomorrow?
The only way to experience life is by immersing yourself in here and now.
Leave a few box of your list unchecked
To-do list are meant to help us by organising our tasks and managing our time efficiently. They are NOT by any means meant to cause additional stress from the pressure of completing them. So, let a few boxes of your list left unchecked. Not everything needs to be completed immediately. In fact not everything needs to be completed at all. What matters is this very moment. Sometime even if you need to ignore your to-do list to live in the moment, you must do it. Memories we hold create more value than the tasks we accomplish. So let’s create a balance between personal goals and a fulfilling life.
Sometimes you need to go with the flow
Sometimes, let the life take it’s twist and turns naturally. You don’t have to predetermine every single outcome over obsess over planning every single step. Instead, allow yourself to flow with the experiences that unfold along the way. Rather than controlling learn to trust your journey. You may discover new paths and opportunities that you never anticipated. It’s in these moments of spontaneity that we often find the most profound lessons.
So give a rest to your to-do list once in a while and experience the day as it comes. You might find joy in simplest of acts like a warm cup of coffee or just looking aimlessly at the sky. Let this sense of freedom replace your structured schedule once in a while.
Go for a leisure walk, savour the warm sunlight, share laughter with friends, enjoy the simplicity of every day and let go of relentless pursuit of tasks.
“Mix a little foolishness with your serious plans. It is lovely to be silly at the right moment.” - Horace