Learn to List, Write, and Schedule

Using lists can greatly simplify a multitude of tasks. From shopping to cleaning to traveling. Making lists is a ridiculously easy thing to do, but the amount of help they provide is immaculate.

Here are a few of the items I use to de-stress my life:

1. To Do Lists

The most common type of list in our everyday lives. I have two different types of to do lists. One is a daily to do list, and one is a weekly to do list. These contain things like; take out trash, wash car, clean room, finish chapter 27, learn to play Good Riddance on guitar, etc.

2. Wish List

Not the same wish list you use for Christmas, but one you use to monitor spending. It helps reduce impulse buying. If you want to buy an expensive item write it down and put the date next to it. In thirty days if it still seems like something you need, go ahead and buy it. (http://zenhabits.net/2007/02/monitor-your-impulse-spending-urges/)

3. Workout Log

This may not simplify anything, unless you are trying to remember what you did earlier... But it can definitely help keep track of progress and serve as inspiration when you notice that you have accomplished a strength goal.

4. Journaling

Also not a list, but very helpful. I use my moleskin notebook (that fits conveniently in my back pocket) to record any seemingly important ideas I have. Maybe ideas for a new blog post, a new song, or perhaps just some general contemplation on life.

5. Planner

Something similar to a calendar. When all of your important dates are in one place along with meeting times and places it is much more difficult to forget.


Image by koalazymonkey

5 Ways to Get School Work Done

Procrastination is one of the easiest skills to master. I myself am a black belt in the art of procrastination. I can watch videos on YouTube, read posts on Lifehacker, and play guitar for hours on end, especially when I'm supposed to be studying for my Biology exam. However, recently I have found and applied a few simple strategies to getting my school work done.


1. Focus
Figure out what you need to do. Then figure out how you are going to do it. It makes sense to plan a little bit, this way it's not so overwhelming.

2. Disconnect
This is one of the most preached about methods to getting things done. This means not only turning off the computer, but the phone as well. If my computer is turned off and in another room I have less distractions and therefore am more likely to get it all done in a timely manner.

3. Take [scheduled] Breaks
If I have a lot of work to do I look ahead and decide when I am going to take a break. Maybe it's a 5 minute break after every three sections. Only take breaks that you have planned though and keep them short. The longer they are the more likely you are to go do something else and forget about your work. But, this gives you a chance to get up, stretch, and get a glass of water.

4. Give Yourself a Deadline
Even if a project isn't due for a few more weeks, if you can get it done early it is a big relief. You don't have to stress about it anymore.

5. Reward Yourself
Treat yourself to something after you have finished that big assignment. Take a long break, watch TV, relax.