Boost Your Productivity with the Two Lists Strategy

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands of work and life. Staying focused and productive can feel like an uphill task with a never-ending to-do list and endless distractions. But a simple strategy can help you take control of your time and boost your productivity.

Two list strategy

The two lists strategy involves creating an Impact list and a To-Do list.

• Your Impact list should include only activities that move you towards your 3 Month Objectives, while
• Your To-Do list should include everything else

By prioritizing your Impact list and focusing on activities that truly move the needle, you'll be able to avoid getting bogged down by unimportant tasks and increase your productivity.

Why the Two Lists Strategy Works

The two lists strategy is based on two key principles: goal-directed behaviour and prioritizing time.

Goal-Directed Behavior

One reason why the two lists strategy is effective is that it helps you focus on tasks aligned with your goals and values. According to research, goal-directed behaviour is associated with higher motivation, satisfaction, and well-being. When you identify and focus on tasks that move you towards your goals, you'll feel more purposeful and motivated to get things done.

To use the two lists strategy effectively:

• Start by setting clear objectives for yourself (try OKRs - Objectives and Key Results)
• Then identify the smaller actionable Impact Activities that lead you towards your objectives
• Use this Impact list to track your progress towards these objectives, and adjust your priorities as needed.

Prioritizing Time

Another reason why the two lists strategy is effective is that it helps you prioritize your time. Research shows that people who prioritize their time are more productive and less stressed than those who don't. By setting a goal to spend at least 60% of your week on Impact Activities, you'll be able to focus on tasks that truly matter and avoid getting overwhelmed by unimportant tasks.

To make the most of your time, it's important to identify your most productive hours of the day. Some people are more productive in the morning, while others work better in the afternoon or evening. Experiment with different schedules to find out what works best for you, and try to schedule your most important tasks during your peak productivity hours.

Regular breaks can also improve your focus and productivity, so take a few minutes to stretch, walk around, or grab a healthy snack whenever you feel tired or distracted.

Tracking Your Progress

To make sure that the two lists strategy is working for you, it's crucial to track your progress and adjust your lists as needed. At the end of each week, evaluate how much time you spent on your Impact list versus your To-Do list. If you're spending more time on your To-Do list, it's time to re-evaluate your priorities and adjust your lists accordingly.

To track your progress, you can use various tools and techniques, such as a productivity journal, a time-tracking app, or a simple spreadsheet. The key is to find a method that works for you and stick to it consistently.

>> If you want to put this into practice and are looking for extra accountability try out Prime Focus for a month

Celebrating Your Successes

In addition to tracking your progress, it's also important to celebrate your successes along the way.

When you achieve a milestone or complete an important task, take a moment to acknowledge your accomplishment and pat yourself on the back. This will help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

Celebrating your successes doesn't have to be a big or expensive affair. It could be something as simple as treating yourself to a cup of coffee or taking a few moments to reflect on what you've accomplished. The important thing is to recognize and celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may seem.

Staying Motivated

While the two lists strategy can be a powerful tool for boosting productivity, it's not a magic solution. There will be days when you feel overwhelmed, unmotivated, or distracted.

In those moments, ask yourself:

"What do I need to do to stay committed to my goals and focused on the tasks that truly matter?"

One way to stay motivated is to surround yourself with positive influences. Seek out colleagues, friends, mentors who shares your values and can provide support and encouragement along the way.

Joining a productivity group or hiring a productivity coach can raise your game, helping you perform at your best, stay motivated and be accountable.

Wrapping it up

• The two lists strategy is a simple but effective way to take control of your time and boost your productivity
• By focusing on tasks aligned with your goals and values, prioritizing your time, tracking your progress, celebrating your successes, and staying motivated, you can achieve tremendous success in work and life.

Remember, the key to success with the two lists strategy is consistency.

Make a habit to update your lists regularly, track your progress consistently, and celebrate your successes along the way.

With time and practice, you'll be able to achieve your goals and increase your productivity, one task at a time.