Checking tasks off your 'to-do' list, is a good habit to cultivate. There is nothing weird about doing your work the way you would want to. However, one has to learn to prepare to-do list and to manage them from time to time.
Have a pocket sized note pad/book or a planner. Prepare/write down the pointers for yourself. And let it direct you through your day's work.
Some simple words to mark against each task would be like 'follow up', 'in progress', 'done' etc. It brings an order of achieving your day to day tasks effectively. You may want to call it as a sort of 'disciplinary guide'.
These tips might come in handy to make your every day check-list (work) doable.
* Be your own boss and be your own worker
By being your own boss, you plan and commit to perform your actions consistently. By being your own worker, you are practically implementing and getting things done the way it has to happen. At the end of the day, you feel satisfied for all that you've planned for, worked and achieved on. This frame of mind may help you to maintain an order and get you more disciplined in doing your day to day chores.
* Jot down the immediate actions
You may have long-term jobs and immediate actions as well. Scribble your immediate commitments. Jot down the works which can be achieved in a shorter span of time or immediately. Let top jobs appear first. So, prioritise.
* Use short descriptions, be specific
Remember that this exercise is just for your reference. When you make a note of your plans and actions, use short descriptions of what you exactly wish to perform or achieve. Be as simple and specific as you can. Examples can be 'send email', 'finish math assgmt', 'make copies' etc.
* Tick those jobs which are completed!
If you're done with a job, it would make sense to check it off your 'to-do' list. Believe it or not, there is a great sense of satisfaction in doing so. You will never feel blank or undone, when you tick those completed jobs off your list. Perhaps, this action would get you to focus on remaining jobs.
* A method to prac n perf!
As for the famous saying, 'practice makes man perfect', holds good as long as you put things to constant application. Making a note of these points is just one step. But to apply or practice this method could take several steps or initiatives from your end. Following up and repeatedly practicing the check-list method, is what takes you to become perfect.
We'll be happy to accept some more unique check-list doable tips which you may have. Please share.