Can't sleep? Make a list.

Can't sleep because your mind is running so fast and you're running after it? You're not alone. Millions lie awake trying not to forget ... trying to remember everything they have to get done. It's stressful just thinking about it. So write it down. Make a list.

Fact is, "the list" is the most powerful productivity tool ever discovered. Simply writing down everything you need to get done on one list and then prioritizing it will turn chaos into momentum. I read that Steve Balmer (Microsoft CEO) creates a prioritized list every day. He then takes the top three items on his list, throws the rest away, and focuses on just those for the day. And look where that concept got him!

Surely many things will come up during the day that can sidetrack you from your list ... but don't be so easily distracted. Before you react, add any new item to your list so that you can clearly evaluate whether it is more or less important than the other things. Remember, priorities are the road to success, everything else is just a distraction.

And one more thing - make your To Do list an action list. Everything on your list should indicate a next step action to getting something done. All listings should begin with action words such as: call, e-mail, review, identify, create, etc. When you look at your action list, you will know exactly what you need to do to get it done!

Lists. Simple concept. Powerful tool.