Perpetual To-Do List
I end almost every workday the same way: I enter my time and make tomorrow’s to-do list.
Using the template pictured below, I have a perpetual list of action items on my radar.
As I go throughout the day, I keep time and check things off.
I add entries and pages as new things come up.
I add follow up items to the “description” box, so I know what the continuing obligations are.
In Q4, I switched to a virtual version—in GoodNotes—so I can highlight, copy and paste, and move things around.
On this example, the asterisk means: do this today.
Sometimes, I’ll list the due date to the side, to help me prioritize, or I’ll number them in the order I hope to get to them.
At the end of the day, I review the list, enter my time, and create tomorrow’s sheet.
Sometimes, I even “schedule” tasks for tomorrow or the next day, creating multiple (dated) sheets throughout the day as these new tasks come in (allowing me to place them in line, and remove them from my mental or inbox clutter).
7.5 years in, this is now second nature for me.
Creating a to-do list has always been my thing, but keeping track of so many things, as well as my time, was not easy as a first-year associate.
But: I built the habit and now I feel off if I end a day without following this process.
And, yes: that does happen. I’ll work up until an after-work appointment and not enter my time or create tomorrow’s list.
So, the next day, before getting started with anything at work, I will enter my time and create that day’s list.
To thrive in a demanding work environment, like #biglaw, it is imperative that you create systems that help you manage your time (and enter your time) and keep track of pending action items.
Maybe a system like mine will work for you (and I’m happy to share a word doc or PDF of this template).
Or, maybe it won’t and this is a jumping off point for you to experiment and find what does work for you.
Whatever the system you find: being organized and on top of obligations is key to finding success in most corporate jobs, and especially a large law firm.
Build the system, create the habit, make room for more substantive ways to use your time and mental capacity.
#emilylitigates #mindfullyemily #professionalwomen #lawyerwellbeing