I drafted this blog post a couple of weeks ago. During this time of social distancing where I’m spending less time travelling, more time at home, and my work habits aren’t the same it’s become even more useful, so I’m sharing this with you now as it may help you too.
I was talking with my coach recently about my list of things that aren’t essential, but would be helpful and I intend to do one day. I keep these in a list so that I don’t forget them, but I’ll only do things on this list when I have extra time. I keep them separate to my regular “to do” list.
As we were talking, I realised this was more of a “could do” list and I find this a helpful distinction so I thought I would share in case it’s helpful for you too.
I find it helpful to think of things that I “could” do as it removes any pressure to do them any time soon, and ensures I feel like I’m making a choice to actively do something I want to do. They’re often proactive tasks that no one will miss if I don’t do them, but they will help if I do.
My “could do” list has some business items (things like improving my website and moving my mailing list software), and it has some items for home (things like re-organising my wardrobe, sorting out my recipes, or trying a new recipe).
I also sometimes write a list of things I could do when I have a free day (or half day). It’s so nice to really enjoy the extra bonus time – sometimes I choose to spend it by being productive like tidying or cleaning, and sometimes I choose to spend it relaxing by doing something like visiting somewhere new or doing one of my craft projects.
It feels so empowering to have a “could do” list and I’m definitely going to use this more. I’ll still have my “to do” lists but my could do lists will help me choose how to spend my time when I’m being proactive rather than reactive.
How might you use a “could do” list to help you?
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