Make sure you have robot-instructions in your to-do list. In the rush of the day you'll escape items that require decisions. Using verbs is a simple way to test it.
Don't just list the "issue". Write also the instruction - what are you going to do about it? What are the instructions for your Robot-self? What is the verb?
- Issue XPTO : call John
- Issue XPTA : select 5 prospects
If you don't know yet, and can't decide right now, you can try: "Issue XPTB : ??". So you know that if it gets stuck (it will) and you repeatedly see yourself copying it into next day's to-do list, you know what's happening - you haven't decided what to do!
- Issue XPTO : call John
- Issue XPTA : select 5 prospects
If you don't know yet, and can't decide right now, you can try: "Issue XPTB : ??". So you know that if it gets stuck (it will) and you repeatedly see yourself copying it into next day's to-do list, you know what's happening - you haven't decided what to do!
Action-oriented verbs you should use: write, list, draft, go, send, call, select, ...
(visible trackable actions or deliverables)
Non action-oriented verbs you should avoid: handle, solve, see, take a look into, analyze, start, conclude, finish, decide, think about, verify, ...
(non visible non trackable unclear mental operations)
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Seems subtle but it is really effective! Understanding and respecting how our brains works gets you half the way towards being more productive hence happier! Definitely worth to try!