HOW TO USE A TO-DO LIST SYSTEM EFFECTIVELY

I discovered the to-do list system about five years ago, and I’ve been using it ever since because I haven’t found a more convenient way to keep track of my tasks. For some reason, it’s quite challenging to find information about this method online, which is why I wanted to share this amazing planning tool with you. It works…

Instructions for Using the System

I discovered the to-do list system about five years ago, and I’ve been using it ever since because I haven’t found a more convenient way to keep track of my tasks. For some reason, it’s quite challenging to find information about this method online, which is why I wanted to share this amazing planning tool with you.

It’s quite simple to use: you’ll need a notebook where you can write everything down, a ruler, and a pen. Next, follow the instructions below and learn a few symbols for easier understanding of your notes.

1.Create a table with seven columns. These columns will represent the days of the week.

2.Write the days of the week above the dates (as shown in the diagram).

3.Mark the dates.

4.Choose symbols for your tasks. You may not need all of them; I use five, which is enough for me since my plans typically involve managing everyday tasks. However, it all depends on your lifestyle.

After all the steps, you should have a table like this. On the right, you’ll place your symbols in the box under the day of the week or date related to the planned task. On the left, you’ll write a description of what needs to be done.

So, you’ve written down the task, found the corresponding date vertically, and marked it horizontally with the symbol that will assist you. If it’s not entirely clear what I mean, you can check the article below to see how I formatted my to-do lists.

Symbols/Icons

All the symbols will help you understand the type of task you’ve written, what needs to be done with it, and what stage of completion it is in.

Unfilled Cell: The task has been assigned but has not yet been completed.

Half-Filled Cell: You have started working on the task, but for some reason, you have either postponed it or cannot continue at the moment. It might be a good idea to break such tasks into smaller parts and, once completed, move on to the next symbol.

Filled Cell: The task or subtask is fully completed.

Crossed-Out Cell: If you’ve created a task, drawn an empty cell, and decided that completing it is no longer meaningful or that it’s currently impossible and you don’t know when the opportunity will arise, you can simply cross out the cell, and the task will be considered canceled.

Cell with Arrow: This is similar to the previous option, but in this case, we clearly know when we can reschedule our tasks. I typically use this symbol to indicate postponed meetings that fell through at the last minute or if I didn’t manage to complete something on a specific day. In that case, I draw an empty cell next to it for the following day.

Important Task: If you need to highlight that something is extremely important, you can use an exclamation mark inside the cell. After completing the task, you can simply fill in the cell as well.

Need to Find Out: If you can’t plan your tasks due to a lack of information, make sure to find out everything you need and take notes. To remind yourself to gather this information, use this type of cell.

Arrows Pointing in Different Directions: Suppose you have a task with clear deadlines that has already been broken down into subtasks. If you want to track how much time remains until the deadlines without cluttering your table with extra empty cells, place an arrow pointing right on the first day of the task and an arrow pointing left on the last day. This way, you can easily see the time frame available for completion.

Deadline Day: Again, to clearly see how much time is left, you can highlight these dates in a different color to make them stand out.

CONCLUSION

To help you keep track of these symbols, I’ve created a handy reference guide that you can download below. Additionally, feel free to follow my Pinterest, where you’ll find plenty of information about the intricacies of keeping a planner and a personal diary.

No More Achy Feet with 20 Best Flats for Work 

If you have not considered wearing flats in years, you are about to. It appears that more and more individuals are ditching their heels in favor of a pair of elegant flats, and it is easy to understand why. Flats are simple to put on, go with almost any outfit, and may be worn all day without needing to be removed. You work best when you are comfortable, which is why we have compiled a list of the 20 best flats for work to help you in finding your new office footwear.

Hash Bubbie Casual Dress Shoes

These work shoes were created with your convenience in mind. They include a non-slip sole, a thicker PU insole, a foot-friendly heel, and a pointed toe with the ideal angle to help your feet “feel more comfortable” and “won’t squeeze,” according to the company. They’re also quite cheap so it’s understandable that they won’t get with you long.

Semwiss Women’s Comfortable Ballet Flats

These inexpensive ballerina flats are constructed of knit material, but the maker claims they are far from stuffy. The pointed toe and lined shape also provide your feet with a pleasing and smaller appearance. If you have larger feet, get a size larger than your casual size since the forms are rather little.

Funky Monkey Classic Ballet Flats

If knit flats aren’t your thing, try these traditional ballet choices with a faux leather top for an office-appropriate look. They’re literally made for work days as they’re flexible, easy to walk in. If you have narrow feet, it is recommended to buy half a size smaller than usual. Feet are normal or wide, it is recommended to buy in normal size.

Dream Pairs Low Wedge Ankle Strap Flats

This pair of shoes has a beautiful ankle strap and a cushioned footbed to keep your feet comfy all day. You may wear them for hours and your feet will not be sore at the end of the day. They run on the small side, according to the company, so purchase a half-size bigger.

Slocyclub Classic Pointed Toe Slip On Shoe

These soft knit flats are foldable and can be tossed into your handbag for on-the-go wear, making them ideal for the average commuter. The pair is also available in a variety of colors and designs, so there’s certain to be a hue to match practically every outfit in your closet. Those with large feet will enjoy this pair, however, if you have little feet, these shoes may be too big or even floppy for you.

Frank Mully Knit Ballet Flats

If your feet sweat while walking, the company claims that the knit top on these flats provides some ventilation. They are not only functional but also fashionable: You’ll have over 40 hues to select from when choosing a pair, whether you like a basic nude to match with pants or a vivid burst of pink or red to spice up your outfit. Socks are required when wearing these shoes to avoid making your feet sweaty and stinky.

Vionic Minna Ballet Flat

A podiatrist devised these flats to assist maintain the body’s natural alignment from the ground up. Vionic recommends wearing your new footwear for only a few hours for a  first few days to allow your feet to acclimatize to the new degree of orthotic comfort and support. With regular usage, the rubber heel may wear out so you might wanna be careful with these.

Anne Klein Women’s Uplift Ballet Flat

Women who are looking for both comfort and flair will appreciate the stylish and functional Anne Klein Women’s Uplift Ballet Flat. These flats, which were carefully crafted, have a traditional ballet-inspired form with a rounded toe and a low heel. These flats effortlessly spice up any outfit, whether they are worn with jeans for a more laid-back trip or with a dress for a more formal occasion, making them an essential part of every woman’s collection.

Trotters Estee Woven Flats

These shoes have a cushioned footbed that makes them ideal for walking—often without the need for a break-in period. In addition to broad and extra-wide flats, ordinary and narrow flats are available for those who require them. Best of all, Trotters is recognized for standing behind its shoes—with high-quality materials and workmanship, as well as amazing customer service. When walking, the shoe creates a squeaking sound, but these shoes are fantastic overall.

Naturalizer Soul Gift Flat

Look for shoes with a large toe box when searching for shoes for broad feet, since wide-width shoes can help with a range of foot ailments. The Naturalizer Soul Gift Flat is a versatile shoe that can be worn to the workplace or to brunch on the weekends. They contain foam lining, memory foam arch support, and antibacterial sock lining, making them ideal for people who have foot problems. They are, however, only available in broad sizes 6 to 10, which is somewhat restricted when compared to other options.

Sam Edelman Felicia Flat

Women with tiny feet must worry about their shoes coming off (we feel you, Cinderella) or strive to wear a certain sock thickness to help a shoe fit better and remain on. These flats come in a variety of colors, and a beautiful charm on the ribbon adds a nice finishing touch. Like Dream Pairs or Semwiss Women’s Comfortable flats, they run small, so go up a half size.

Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flat

These high-end slip-on flats are famed for their design, but committed admirers appreciate them for their comfort as well. They are available in a range of colors and styles. The footbed is gently cushioned and lined with silky leather. In addition, the heel offers an elastic fit for a subtle stretch as you walk. 

NINE WEST Women’s Saige Ballet Flat

The Saige is a perfect addition to any outfit! Nine West offers a quick edit of the runways pinpointing the must have looks of the season, and translating what is fun, hip, and of the moment. It is trend-right footwear that you will reach for in your closet again and again. Nine West is sure to be your trusted resource for everyday chic style. It’s also made of 100% leather with a slip-on silhouette, making it perfect for all-day wear. Make sure to go half-size up for the most comfortable fit.

M. Gemi The Danza

Handmade in Tuscany, Italy, these beautiful leather ballerina flats. While they are costly, they are manufactured from certified, sustainable leather. The concealed wedge structure supports and comforts the arches while maintaining the appearance of a ballet flat. A square toe with a beautiful bow adds a modern touch to the traditional ballet shoe.

Felice 366-6

Do you prefer preppy chic? Then you must have a pair of penny loafers, such as these Lucca Vudors. They have a pressure-relieving sole and supple leather for comfort. Complement the outfit with a French-tucked shirt and cigarette pants. They will always look beautiful whether you wear them with a work suit or a playsuit.

Birdies The Goldfinch

Birdies shoes provide exceptional comfort with a seven-layer footbed that adjusts to your foot shape. You will be suprised by the Goldfinch ballet flat’s stability and suppleness. It also comes in a variety of textures, ranging from suede and velvet to leather and raffia. The pointed toe creates a stylish profile without squeezing the toes. Remember to order a half size up for the best fit.

Italeau Trino Loafer

These loafers have soft leather and a high cushioning footbed for good arch support. It comes in eight professional-looking neutral colors, and its front tassel and pointy toe box are structured enough for work without becoming uncomfortable or unpleasant by the end of the day. A plus for commuters: the leather is waterproof and stain-resistant.

Everlane The Day Glove

Everlane’s The Day Glove has a nice fit at first. It is constructed of smooth leather that adapts to your foot over time for a more customized fit. While many ballet flats might become a little steamy, this one has subtle holes on the side to help keep things breezy, making it great for individuals who prefer to wear flats without socks or on hot summer days. 

Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina

Mansur Gavriel maintains his pointe position. In keeping with the “balletcore” fashion trend, this pair is wrapped in lovely pastels and embossed motifs and linked together with a ballerina ribbon and square shape. The shoe’s forgiving leather composition makes it more breathable and flexible. Just keep in mind that high-quality sneakers come at a comparable price. This also needs more care and attention, as the firm suggests storing in a dust bag and maintaining it with a leather conditioner. We also recommend going down a half-size.

Margaux The Demi

This ballet flat, made in Spain, is a wonderful ode to the timeless classic design. It also has a 5 mm thick layer of soft foam cushioning. The leather top is supple and contours to your foot, and the sole feels robust and supportive for a flat. One disadvantage is that it might be difficult to determine the correct fit because it can be too huge, too long, or too tight at times.

Franco Sarto Rina Loafer

Franco Sarto’s faux leather loafer allows you to jump into comfort right out of the box. Despite its pointed-toe box, it is wide, and the heels and sides are tall for a more secure fit. The insoles have molded cushioning to assist the natural curvature of the foot. Keep in mind that the inside is a bit warm, and choose a half-size smaller for the best fit.

Cole Haan Tali Bow Ballet

Cole Haan’s ballerina flats are tiny, comfy, and easy to pack, making them an excellent choice for travel. The unexpected aspect of these flats is how comfortable they are for such a basic shoe. They are dressy enough to wear to a wedding, the opera, or any other formal occasion. With soft leather, they create a wide range of feet, offering comfort.

A comfy flat is a wardrobe must-have. Classic ballerina flats, adaptable loafers, and stylish slingbacks are all flat styles. The traditional footwear provides a sense of professionalism to working days and is ideal for elegant nights out. With this list, you will be able to select the perfect pair for you.