Make a List, You'll Feel Better

Pier 1 Imports Quote Spiral Notepad (clipped to polyvore.com)

To-do lists are one of my favorite ways to stay productive. Whether I'm just doing stuff around the house, or I'm getting ready for company to come over, I like using pens and paper to stay on task.

Whether you just make shopping lists, or like to itemize your entire day, here's my little field guide to making to-do lists. :)

• If you're making a weekly shopping/grocery list, write things down as you need them. This will take the guesswork out of your weekly errand runs, and will hopefully help you have less of those "I forgot [insert item here]!" moments when you get home.
• Categorize your tasks as much as you can. This will especially help you if you're a student; you can categorize homework from your social stuff and other items on your list. This can also work for general errands, housekeeping, food to cook for a meal, and so on.
• Colored pens make listing fun. They can help categorize your lists further or just make your organization bright and happy. Cross off items with highlighters to add color to lists in black or blue pen or pencil. If you're making lists on your iPhone or iPad, make your list a bright color for the same effect.
• Fun notepads make listing fun, too. Whether you use bright post-it notes or a monogrammed notepad, you'll be more likely to use them and stay productive. Use whatever works for you and your needs, and you'll be good to go. :)

I hope this little field guide to to-do listing helped you out! What's your favorite way to manage tasks or keep a to-do list?