To do: write list

Articles of this nature make useful reading but in some cases can make a difficult situation worse.

Creating a to-do list is essential for any manager. However, it can also be destructive because a long list can cause even more stress when you realise it’s impossible to achieve everything.

I recommend breaking down the to-do list into sections:

1) Important and urgent: items that must be carried out straight away;

2) Important but not urgent: items that require attention, but can wait a while, at least until section 1 is complete;

3) Not important and not urgent: items go at the end of the to-do list, when all other tasks are achieved.

So don’t fall into the trap of just creating a long to-do list. Prioritise and you will have a more productive day.