What would be on your “Could Do” List?
There’s a different way to approach a To-Do list that I first learned from Sam Bennett’s book “Get It Done”. Instead of the resistance and resentment brought on by a To-Do list, creating a Could-Do list is actually fun, because there are no rules about what has to be done; only what could be done.
For my Could Do list, I permit myself to think of things that I may or may not do, and since I have a feeling of choice, I have more freedom. I include things that are exploratory, challenging, short term, long term, new or old. Some things are exciting, some are not so exciting. The point is, I have a choice.
I’ve found that this sense of freedom has led to some surprises; I’ve added things that I might have otherwise resisted to consider due to self-doubt, which has given me real insights about what attracts me.
Given that I have the choice, I still have the option not to do it, but I like to think that there is an inner wisdom at play when I add something to the list. I believe there is something beyond my conscious that wants to emerge, so the list serves as a placeholder.
The Could Do list is a form of ritual; I’m not forced to act on anything, but just the act of writing an idea down means there is meaning behind it, even if it’s not immediately apparent. Down the road, there will likely be some synchronicity among my ideas and what’s really relevant.
The most important thing I’ve found from curating this list is holding space for insight, and when that happens, there is a natural flow of action steps. Contrast this with the “white knuckling” of getting through a To Do list.
Once you have put together a Could Do list, even one that is abundant with ideas, you still have to deal with self-doubt and make a decision to try. Procrastination is another enemy of even the most inspiring Could Do list. Consider the times when self-doubt and procrastination has held up forward progress for you. The cruel joke is that we remain safe in our comfort zones, but we also allow those projects and ideas to stagnate.
To help overcome this inertia, build a Could Do list by asking yourself how you want to show up in the world. Align your list of ideas with things that are important to you, to the people in your networks, to the organizations you care about, to the world in general. Imagine the impact your ideas could have if they came to be.
Another idea from Sam Bennett’s book is to think of people to reach out to who have expertise and knowledge; people you may or may not know who could send you a wealth of information, or be willing to make an introduction if you ask for one. Add those people to contact on your list and see what happens.
Ask yourself what’s one simple, easy and affordable step - what would take less than 15 minutes? A little research? Add that to the list - small steps can just feel good.
A Could Do list is a great option to combat any conditioned thinking you have about planning; let your inner rebel have the chance to dream of what could happen, not what should or must happen.
In the coming days;
Write down 6 to 7 items for your Could Do list.
Post the list somewhere you will see it every day
Over time, refer to your list for inspiration, and make updates as you execute and add more items. Soon, you will notice yourself stretching, deciding, taking action, and allowing your inner wisdom to kick in more often.
Join my upcoming Group Program entitled “A Guide to Sticking to Your Plan (For Real This Time), starting on February 1, 2021
With greater awareness, a powerful vision, and the right allies, starting and sticking to your plan is possible! Stop dreaming, start doing!
This six week program will help you:
Get energized about moving forward with your ideas and projects
Develop your skills to manage the unpleasant feelings that hold you back
Bring focus to your goals and guard your project from detractors
Ask for and accept support and learn how to talk out loud about your project
Enjoy the process and stay on track to reach the finish line