My list of accomplishments: the to-done list

I have a love of paper, pens and to-do lists (remember my effort to write 100 handwritten notes in 100 days). Lists make me feel like I have my act together, and the physical act of writing solidifies content in my brain. I am sure that there is something very symbolic about the sincere feeling of accomplishment and organization that I experience, but I will leave that to the professionals to explain.

What I know is that making lists works for me. You do you, and I will do me - which is making lists, rewriting lists, color coding my lists, and putting pretty paper clips on my lists. I do use my list as well. It guides my day and keeps me on task.

I gave up my paper planner many years ago. Every now and then I am tempted by all the beautiful, shiny, and perfect photos of planners on my Instagram feed. They are calling my name, but a paper planner just isn't practical for me. My smartphone is now in charge, and I have to scroll past those pretty planners.

I like to engage in personal development. I watch YouTube videos, I read books, I listen to podcasts, and I read blogs. It gives me that same happy feeling I get when I make a nice list.

Recently, one of the blogs I read suggested creating a "to-done" list after she witnessed a wall with Post-its called, "Wall of Accomplishments."

The light bulb in my head starting glowing brighter.

What if I gave myself five minutes at the end of each week to list my to-done's and my accomplishments? What if I gave myself a moment before falling asleep to think about what accomplished for myself, for work, and for my family?

It was a satisfying experience.

Looking at the list (written and in my head), I felt pretty proud of myself. These lists are not meant to be shared with others. They are simply to remind me that I am doing good things and to identify holes where other things didn't happen.

And then I started silently doing this on my drive home from work. A quick report of the day.

Small, simple and effective - those are my favorite personal development stories!

Go ahead. Right now, write down five things you have accomplished today. It could be simple stuff like made the bed, prepared lunch bags, sorted mail, etc. It could be bigger stuff, too. Feels pretty good, right?

With this exercise, I was quickly reminded of the many, many things that fill my day, the many things that I do for my family, and the many mundane tasks that fill my work day that are necessary but not always celebrated. I have also found some great highlights that I didn't give myself credit for - and the simple act of acknowledging my efforts felt pretty good.

Will I do this every day or every week? Probably not. I will forget. But in the moments when I feel like I am not accomplishing enough or when I am overwhelmed by my color-coded to-do list, it will be a good exercise to keep me on track.