Postcards from the Funny Farm

I’m often saved by making a list. This week is especially hectic and when my weeks get hectic, I’m extra careful not to miss deadlines. This extra carefulness causes stress.

As I’ve written about here before, lists are often a godsend for me. There is a malaise that comes over me when I’m overwhelmed with things I have to do and sometimes it’s a chore unto itself to actually pick up a pen and make the list. However, without exception when I do I feel better. So if you get brain-dead by stress as I do, here’s a quick tutorial to remind you :)

How to make a list:

1. Grab whatever paper is around but look for one that is light colored and large if possible. I’ve made some of my best lists on unopened mail, but the ideal is dedicated list paper that is white or another bright color.
2. Get a good pen. Before you start to write, make sure your pen works.
3. Write the thing that stresses you out the most first (ie; organize junk drawer). Then as you write each item, feel the stress lightly be lifted . . . simply by identifying them.
4. Draw a line under the last item on your list as if you represent the END of all you have to do.
5. Pin or staple it up somewhere in your workspace where you can cross things off as you go. As you cross of those “biggies,” I guarantee you are gonna feel loads better.

See ya on the other side of your list! (and mine)