The reasons generally fall into two main categories:
- lack of proper time habits
- format/to-do list mismatch
1. You have no list at all
Many people say they don't need a to-do list, that they remember what they have to do. But that's just an excuse for them to forget it later. Or they use the excuse that lists are too rigid for them, and so on ... Yet the to-do list is still the simplest proven productivity tool.
2. You have multiple lists
The opposite of having no list is having too many of them. Some people take notes everywhere: at home, at work, on the phone, in their diary, on a tablet, on tickets ... They stick them wherever they go. So it's no wonder they forget some tasks, because they simply forgot to look here or there. You only need one list in one place to write everything down and find everything. It will help you concentrate and plan better as you are able to gauge more easily how urgent individual tasks are.
3. You don't have it with you everywhere
One of the first lessons of time management is always to have your "to-do list" at hand. How else can you work actively with it if you don't always carry it with you?
4. It's too complicated
The to-do list should be easy to use. Simple pen and paper are ideal. If you're using an app, make sure you only need a few easy clicks to add a task to the list. Choose a medium to suit you in the long run. If you have a problem with one format, try another, but be sure not to give up.
5. Out of sight, out of mind
Constantly having tasks in mind leads to action. Applications can be a hassle in this area because, although you use your phone often, the to-do list itself is just one part of a set of different tools. In contrast, a diary or pen and paper can always be in front of you.
6. You're not in the habit of writing tasks down
Your to-do list must be part of your routine and achieving this should be a basic habit of time management, whose development you will focus on. Once you get used to it, it will be much easier for you to work with this tool without having consciously to think about it. But at first it's about practising a new skill.
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