The Power of the Done List: A Simple Hack to Boost Productivity
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your to-do list, like you’re always working but never quite seeing the results? You’re not alone.
While to-do lists are great for keeping track of tasks, they can sometimes make us feel like we’re never accomplishing enough.
That’s where the Done List comes in. By focusing on what you’ve already completed, you can shift your mindset, recognize your progress, and build the momentum you need to crush your goals.
In this latest episode of InFocus on the JAXONLABS YouTube Channel, we explore the power of the Done List and how you can use it to stay motivated throughout your day.
Click to watch: Watch the Video Here
What Is a Done List?
A Done List is exactly what it sounds like: a running log of every task or milestone you complete during the day, no matter how big or small. Rather than only looking at what you need to do next (which can be overwhelming), a Done List celebrates your achievements, boosting your morale and giving you a sense of progress.
Why Traditional To-Do Lists Can Fall Short
While there’s nothing wrong with a standard to-do list, it often emphasizes the gap between where you are and where you want to be. If you’re juggling multiple projects or trying to meet tight deadlines, a traditional to-do list can serve as a constant reminder of how far you have to go.
On the other hand, a Done List highlights what you’ve already accomplished. This small shift in perspective can make a huge difference in how you feel about your productivity levels, ultimately spurring you on to do more.
How to Get Started With a Done List
Choose Your Format
Whether it’s a dedicated notebook, a note-taking app on your phone, or an online document, pick a simple format you’ll actually use.
Log Your Completions Daily
Each time you finish a task, write it down. It can be something big, like finalizing a presentation, or something small, like drafting a quick email you’ve been putting off.
Review at the End of Each Day
Before you wrap up, take a look at everything on your Done List. Recognizing the progress you’ve made keeps you motivated and helps you plan for the next day.
Use Your Done List to Plan Ahead
Compare what you have accomplished to what still needs doing. This reflection can help you prioritize tasks more effectively the following day.
The Benefits of Tracking What’s Done
Boosts Motivation: Seeing tangible proof of your progress can reduce stress and keep your spirits high.
Provides a Record of Achievement: This is especially helpful for performance reviews or goal tracking.
Helps Identify Priorities: Spot gaps in your accomplishments, notice neglected projects, and reallocate your time accordingly.
Celebrates Small Wins: Even minor tasks deserve recognition. Small wins add up, building positive momentum.
Real-World Examples
Busy Professionals: If you’re in sales or client services, log calls, follow-ups, and emails. By the end of the week (or quarter), you’ll have a clear record of your productivity.
Freelancers and Creatives: Track each project milestone or client deliverable to stay motivated and showcase your achievements to potential clients.
Students: Keep tabs on each assignment or study session to develop consistency and reduce the stress of last-minute cramming.
One-Week Challenge
We challenge you to try the Done List for one week:
Step 1: Start a fresh page or digital note.
Step 2: Each time you wrap up a task, jot it down.
Step 3: Compare how you feel at the end of the week to how you felt before starting this system.
Ask yourself:
Do you feel more accomplished at the end of each day?
Are you prioritizing what truly matters?
Have you experienced a motivation boost compared to the previous week?
Final Thoughts
A Done List is a simple yet powerful tool for breaking out of that never-ending cycle of tasks and rediscovering your sense of progress. By consistently acknowledging even the smallest of wins, you’ll start to see big changes in your motivation, focus, and overall productivity.
Don’t just take our word for it—try it out and see for yourself!
Want More Productivity Tips?
Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more insights from InFocus, and check out this week’s episode here:
About JAXONLABS
JAXONLABS is a strategy consultancy and brand agency dedicated to helping organizations and individuals transform their strategies and realize their full potential.
We believe that mindset shifts and simple tools like the Done List can create meaningful change in the way we work and achieve our goals.
Ready to get started on your own transformation journey? Contact us to learn more about how we can help you stay in focus and level up your productivity.
