Check off your way to a better life

Atul Gawande, a recent guest on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart was pushing a book on a medical checklist for surgeons to prevent mistakes and ultimately save lives. I was reminded of all the times I’ve had a checklist for complex tasks which made things much easier to remember. When packing for a mission, especially one expected to last several days in Iraq; it was good to have a checklist to ensure you didn’t forget to pack anything important. With so much going on and so much to pack, it’s very easy to forget something which may be crucial.

After watching the episode, I was hit with the idea for making an everyday checklist of ordinary tasks. I often have periods of downtime throughout the day and when I lie down for the night, I recall all the things I would have liked to accomplish which I didn’t. I had the time, I just didn’t remember.

I’ve compiled a very short and simple checklist for myself which I hope to expand and refine. I even added almost silly tasks like brushing my teeth which I hardly forget but it assists someone like me who just likes to check boxes off. It’s a rewarding feeling that helps build and sustain momentum.

Here’s the list in its current form. I have it written like a spreadsheet on an index card stuck on the inside of a Moleskin notepad which I keep on me at all times. Lines are drawn into boxes so I can check each task off.

• Stretch for 10 minutes twice
• Drink at least 8 glasses of water
• Publish one blog entry
• Write one Twitter post
• Ensure inbox is empty before bed
• Read for 2 hours minimum
• Brush teeth twice
• Accomplish one task on to-do list
• Eat one meal slowly and without distraction

My goal is to complete all tasks before bed each day and repeat infinitely. I plan to tweak the list as the days go on by adding new tasks that come to mind or removing tasks that I no longer feel are working out.