To Do Or Not To Do Lists

Do you ever stare at your to-do list and wonder if it’s truly helping or just weighing you down? If that’s you, you’re not alone. In this episode, we explore whether checklists are magical productivity tools or sneaky constraints holding back your wonderfully creative, dyslexic mind.

The conversation dives into different types of to-do lists—some are brilliant, some not so much. We also talk about how to decide if you should even use them, or ditch them for a system that better suits the way you think. Get ready to question how you manage tasks and discover options that may set you free.

Why We Even Bother with To-Do Lists

Many of us are told that a to-do list is essential. Write down every detail, tick them off when done, and never miss a beat. But does that approach gel with a dyslexic mind? Maybe not. Sometimes, our brains thrive in more fluid environments, where we can pivot without feeling tied to a rigid plan.

If you’re juggling multiple projects and tasks, to-do lists can create a sense of control—like you’re not forgetting anything. But it’s easy to feel the list is controlling you. That’s where it helps to look at new ways of structuring your day.

The Good, the Bad, and the Totally Ineffective Lists

In the podcast, we chatted about the various forms of to-do lists—digital apps, sticky notes, whiteboard scribbles, or even bullet journals. Each one can serve a purpose, though it’s crucial to pick what suits your style.

“Ever wonder if a to-do list is helping you or not? That your dyslexic mind wants to run free and change the world, and to-do lists are a thing created by the ‘man’ to keep us trapped?”

That line really stuck with me. Not every system fits every person. You might crave structure, or maybe you loathe feeling boxed in. The key is finding a method that complements your natural way of thinking.

Signs You’re Using the Wrong Approach

Spotting a bad to-do list is usually pretty easy. You feel overwhelmed, confused, and end up ignoring it after a few days. If a grown pile of unchecked tasks haunts you, that’s a red flag. Here are a few common clues that something’s off:

• The list is never finished, and you feel like a hamster on a wheel.
• You constantly rewrite items instead of completing them.
• You’re procrastinating or avoiding looking at the list.
• It doesn’t inspire or motivate you at all.

If any of that sounds familiar, your system might need a shake-up. Simplify it, or try a different format that suits how you think. One page at a time, not a thousand.

Creating a Flow That Works for You

We often talk about finding a “flow state” where work feels natural. The more friction you remove, the easier it is to bounce between tasks while keeping track of the big picture. Here are a few approaches that might help:

• Time-blocking: Instead of listing tasks, block out time chunks in your diary. Work on whatever fits in that slot.
• Brain-dump, then refine: Jot all your ideas and tasks on a big page. Then highlight three main priorities for the day.
• Keyword-based lists: Use memorable keywords to group tasks, so it’s easier to recall what’s next.

Consider pairing these methods with good old sticky notes for those sudden flashes of inspiration. Test, tweak, and do what works for your mind.

Rethinking Lists, Not Abandoning Them Entirely

A lot of people wonder if the best approach is to ditch to-do lists completely. For some, that might be liberating. For others, it can make life even more chaotic. The real trick is to be intentional. Choose a style that gives you room to create while still keeping the must-dos visible.

If you want more ideas on building your confidence along the way, make sure you check out our Dyslexia & Confidence Webinar. It’s a great place to learn new ways of working that align with how we naturally think, instead of fighting against it.

Here are a few takeaways from the episode:

• Rely on flexible systems that won’t become cages.
• A bad to-do list can be worse than having none at all.
• Experiment with new formats—apps, sticky notes, or a single sheet of paper.
• Seek a balance between structure and flow.

Ready to hear it all in detail? The podcast player is right at the top of the page—tune in and let’s chat about it. You’ll discover fresh perspectives on managing tasks and setting your unique dyslexic powers loose.