To - Do List

 When you think about your to-do list, what comes to mind? Maybe your list includes cleaning or another chore around the house, running errands, calling someone, or completing a task for work. However, have you ever thought of adding some of these on your list: do nothing, smile, go outside, get fresh air, do one thing for someone else today, drink water, or exercise. Now, you may include some of these things already like exercise and going outside (these are included on my list a lot, especially when I can get a walk in outside!). In looking at the latter items on the list, you notice some of them may involve simple things and ways we can take care of ourselves. You see, I love making to-do lists 💜!! In recent weeks though, I have looked at my list with a new set of eyes. I am realizing I don't have to do everything in one day and it doesn't have to be long to be effective. Three things done well can be better than five things written down and only one thing got done. It definitely happens though, which I understand. How productive or not productive we are on our list does not determine our worth. We should also not compare our to-do list with someone else's or our to-do list to a previous day. I'm also learning not to be totally bound by the list. It can be used as a guide, but if I don't do everything on it, it's not a loss. There are days when I've had a to-do list and I didn't even follow it. I was being led to do something totally different because of the circumstances of the day or what I needed. You see it's important to know ourselves. We know what we need and don't need. As we think about creating and adding to our to-do lists, let's keep a few things in mind:

•  You may not need one every day. It's okay if you have a day when you don't have a list. There are also days that you may not follow the list. That's happened to me! That's okay too 😊.
• When writing a to-do list, use a system that works for you. Some may use a dry erase board, notes in your phone, planner, post-it note, etc. I love planners and post-it notes! I need to write down items with a pen or pencil and check or cross it off as it gets done. It helps me see my progress 💜. Sometimes, I will write what needs to be done that day on the top and the items that could wait another day closer to the bottom. You can prioritize your list as what needs immediate attention that day and what can wait for a later time. Again, it's what works for you and that's okay 😀.
• On the to-do list, write a balance of needs and wants. Try to include at least one need and one want. It may vary from day to day what we need and want. You may need a laugh or take a walk outside. You may want to watch a movie or read a few pages of your current book. Don't forget to include time with God in prayer and Scripture every day. We need those to help us grow spiritually and be renewed. 
•  Rest is a must 😊. To be still at some point in our day is so important! This is something I'm working on constantly. In our society, I know we are a people on the go. I know being busy is valued, but we need to learn to value rest. It's okay to sit still in your favorite chair or spot in the house for a while. 
• Take time for you. There's nothing wrong with helping others, but don't forget you. In this season of my life, I'm learning to embrace the moments and people I have in my life. Not only do I embrace it, but I am also learning to enjoy those moments. Those moments become memories. I want to hold on to all the good memories I can 💜.  It's the good memories I had with my Mom, Dad and other family members that have passed away that I hold onto now and I am so grateful for 💙.

No matter what a day brings, I want to encourage us to always add two items to our to-do list. As a matter of fact, let's put these two items at the top of the list. Here are the items: 

1. Make new memories. 

2. Enjoy life. 

I'm learning to do these things more and more. Lately, I have been more intentional about planning and spending time with my family and friends. I am loving my time, my people and my new adventures😊! So, as we go throughout our days, let's not forget to cherish our days and moments, do what makes us smile, and take care of us. Here's to a to-do list that brings honor to God 🙏! Here's to a to-do list that creates a beautiful life💕!! May God bless you!!