Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of focusing on a "Done List" over a "To Do List" to better track accomplishments and foster productivity.

Abstract

The article argues that while society is fixated on productivity hacks and managing To Do Lists, the true key to productivity lies in maintaining a Done List. A Done List serves as a record of achievements, including completed tasks, measured metrics, and generated ideas, providing a tangible representation of progress. In contrast, To Do Lists often lead to feelings of overwhelm and can act as a deterrent to productivity by highlighting what hasn't been done. The author suggests that the Done List is a more effective tool for motivation and measuring real success, as it reflects actual accomplishments rather than mere intentions. The article concludes by encouraging readers to try creating a Done List to experience a positive shift in their productivity and mindset.

Opinions

To Do Lists can contribute to feelings of being overwhelmed and unproductive, as they focus on intentions rather than actions.
Done Lists are more valuable than To Do Lists because they track real progress and achievements.
A Done List can boost confidence and inspire further action by visualizing accomplishments.
To Do Lists can become distractions, giving a false sense of productivity without actual output.
The act of adding tasks to a Done List has real meaning and reinforces the significance of completed work.
The author believes that shifting focus to a Done List can lead to a more productive and fulfilling approach to work.

Screw Your To-Do List. You Need A Done List.

Because actions matter more than intentions.

This post was not on my To Do List.

But it will be on my Done list when I hit publish — and that’s more important.

Our collective obsession with productivity hacks has led to an endless supply of tips about how to create and manage your To Do List, but they all miss a crucial point.

Your Done List is more important than your To Do List.

A Done List can take many forms, but it’s a place to track what you’ve accomplished in a given time frame. That could include tasks you complete, metrics you measure, or even ideas you generate.

It’s a way to visualize what you actually get done as opposed to just what you plan/hope/need/are told to do.

While there’s nothing inherently wrong with having a To Do List and it can be helpful, your Done List should be the focus of your attention.

Because your Done List holds the key to the productivity and success you seek.

Here’s why…

Done Lists inspire. To Do Lists overwhelm.

When you look at your To Do List, how does it make you feel?

Overwhelmed? Unproductive? Hesitant? Tired?

It’s a list of things you haven’t done — many of which you don’t want to do, have avoided doing, and are scared to do.

While it may outline what you hope to accomplish, it can also deter you from doing those things as you face the enormity of what it takes to get where you want to go.

To Do Lists make you feel bad. A Done List has the opposite effect — it makes you feel good.

Because your Done List is a list of accomplishments. Tasks you’ve completed and challenges you’ve overcome. It demonstrates progress.

Looking at it will energize you, fuel your confidence, and encourage you to push forward and add more to your list.

A Done List inspires and reveals momentum. It makes you more productive.

Done Lists matter. To Do Lists don’t.

The only things that matter are things you actually do.

When you add things to your To Do List, you’re not accomplishing them— you’re fooling yourself into thinking you are.

Have you noticed how often people who obsess over To Do Lists and productivity hacks wind up producing very little?

It’s easy for To Do Lists to become traps— distractions and hiding places we use to convince ourselves we’re doing more than we are.

A Done List is different.

When you add something to it, that thing has real meaning. It’s an accomplishment.

It’s more powerful and meaningful because your actions matter more than your intentions.

Your To Do List doesn’t reveal much about you. But your Done List tells all.

If you’ve never created a Done List, try it tomorrow and see if it changes you for the better. I’m sure it will.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go add this post to my Done List.

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