I still use a daily check list, do you?

to do listI use a daily check list that I write up the last thing at night for the next day.  It gives me a sense of accomplishing my work and gives me a sense of getting things done without letting something fall thru the cracks.  My business partner, Belinda Spillman, does it differently than I do.  She is younger and keeps hers in her head.  I need to have it written down so I remember to do it. Not sure which is the best because we both get lots done in our business.

When I was in the corporate world, I took classes in Effective Time Management and trained the people I managed to use a check list.  Of course that was a long time ago, but it still works for me.

 

Will Hamm
Aspen Lane Real Estate
Metro Brokers Marina Square
Denver, Colorado
HammHomes@ymail.com
303-358-1147

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Posted by Will Hamm Real Estate in Colorado on 08/20/2012 06:42 AM   Comments (56)   in the ActiveRain Channel   to do lists in business  
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56 Comments on I still use a daily check list, do you?

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AUG
21
2 Featured Posts

I have found that keeping a "tickler file" as I like to call it, works best for me.  Basically, it consists of one of those accordion style file folders with 31 slots.  File Folder

I place something to be followed up on in a specific slot corresponding to that day of the month.  When that day comes, I pull out whatever is in that slot, and follow up on it.  I've been doing that since my days as a warehouse manager, and it continues to serve me well.
7:05am • #37
Outside Blog

I find I am more organized and get more done if I use a check list every day. 
7:16am • #38
1 Featured Post

Hi Will,

Yes and no....I haven't made it a big priority, but boy, do I ever get a lot done - and feel fantastic about it when I check things off the list - when I make a daily to-do list. Thanks for the reminder that I should make it my number one priority...then all my "other" priorities will have a good chance of getting done!

7:33am • #39

I too am a firm believer of a check list. I make up the my master list on every Sunday afternoon and use it throughout the week. It is easier for me to keep track so that things do not fall between the cracks.
Jill Klunk
7:42am • #40
Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

My lists help me stay on task.  Super important for me!
8:10am • #41
160,847 Points 1 Featured Post

Should but usually only use when shopping. My friend does and it is REALLY a good idea. She keeps a running list.
8:18am • #42
Outside Blog

Hi Will,

I often use a To-do list, but every now and then I like to mix it up and use a "To Don't" list. This helps me become more effective with my time by freeing up both my physical and mental energy that was previously going towards things that were:  not essential, not efficient, or that do not make me happy. Give it a try and you will be surprised at how much you can get done by NOT Doing things!

-Tony
8:23am • #43
408,377 Points 19 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

I find when I get out of the habit of writing down everything I need to do that things fall through the cracks. It's funny but when I ran out of steno pads (how I make my lists) my husband noted that I seemed a lot more stressed out and the day I got one and made my first list, when he came home he noticed I seeme to be in a better mood. Clearly, for me, the stress of trying to keep track of everything in my head, combined with the frustration when little things slip through, made for not just a less than perfect work environment, but also affected my home life!
8:36am • #44
I grew up in a home where Mom put all chores on a yellow legal pad. I learned, at an early age, the joy of checking items off the list. I only wear shirts pockets, where I keep a to-do listed which I print very morning. If I am in a place where entering notes into Evernotes (a wonderful way to keep track of to-do's), I jot a note and then enter it into Evernote later. For more complex lists, Soho Organizer is a great tool and makes it easier to prioritize. I have also found it invaluable to keep a list of items accomplished...I refer to it often. And THAT is something that would be very difficult "to keep in your head".
9:35am • #45
Outside Blog

I might be among the last of the "paper and pencil" types also, but I keep a pad next to my computer so that I can list projects as I go through the day.  I review the list at the end of the day and usually need to add something.  This works quite well for me.  I have always been known as a person who is very detail oriented and organized.  Making lists is my secret weapon!  I'm glad to know others do this too!
9:55am • #46
2 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Will,

I still use a daily planner (leather-bound paper) and a daily list (in paper) that I drag around in addition to the myriad electronics (laptop/smart phone). It’s a touch thing I guess. I hear you.

 
10:14am • #47
497,361 Points 13 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Hi Will, we need it written down also.  For us it is Top Producer.
11:15am • #48
2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Yes I still use a checklist because it makes me feel like I've accomplished something.  It works for me.
2:32pm • #49
147,495 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I make notes all the time!  I have to write it on paper, and still use a paper calendar.  It works for me, so I'm sticking with it!
2:57pm • #50
238,330 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

I am a big fan of #2 pencils myself, some of my fellow agents act like they have never seen one!
5:10pm • #51
Outside Blog Hit Router

I used to keep it all in my head but I find lists helpful especially if I am busy.  I actually keep a running list of things I need to get done.  If something gets moved 3 times to a new page of the running list I take it off the list because it either really doesn't need to get taken care of by being on the list or it will take care of itself (like paying bills)...
7:16pm • #52
Outside Blog

Thanks Will.  I absolutely believe in checklists and like you usually make my list the night before for the next day.  I guess it depends on how busy you are as to whether you can keep it all straight in your head.  That and age!!!  Thanks for the reminder!
8:05pm • #53
1,023,170 Points 15 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Called Shot Master

I use a Daily Check List, but sometimes it turns into a weekly checklist before I can get everything marked off.
9:26pm • #54
472,753 Points 12 Featured Posts Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Will, I love daily check lists, but I often find myself moving items from day to day and list to list!
10:54pm • #55
AUG
22
585,406 Points 105 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Back when I was an agent I kept it all in my Franklin planner. Now life is simpler, so I only make a list when I'm working on projects for more than 2 clients at a time or when I need to remember to get back to a number of people.

But I do love lists - it feels so good to cross things off!

12:52am • #56

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Will Hamm Real Estate in Colorado

Denver, CO

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Aspen Lane Real Estate

Address: 8101 E. Belleview Ave #F, Denver, Co., 80237

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