• Mary Ann "Skipper"
  • 2009
  • 0

This is the time of year when children create wish lists for gifts. These lists are often long and there are too many items on them.

Parents frequently say no to all of these gift requests. They tell kids to shorten their lists and to focus on fewer things. This strategy creates excitement for the things received and can prevent disappointment.

As adults, some of us develop “to do” lists that are equally lengthy. We cannot get it all done, yet we keep expanding them.

We frequently feel disappointed when we do not complete all of the tasks. We focus on what we did not accomplish and feel less successful. By shortening and prioritizing our lists, we increase the likelihood of feeling successful. By focusing on what we did do, we increase momentum and positive energy.

Since most of us create lists daily and not just in December, we can apply the same rule to wish lists and “to do” lists:

Prioritize and keep them manageable.

Doing so will give you a sense of fulfillment and joy.