Book Review: Listful Thinking

A simple list can tell you what you need to do next, the ingredients for a recipe, or your plans for world domination.

There are no limits to list making, and the act of putting pen to paper can have a profound impact on your goals. You’re more likely to remember what you write down and keep your priorities top of mind.

Today I’m reviewing Listful Thinking by Paula Rizzo.

The book offers tips for moving beyond the everyday to-do list. You could list the books you want to read next, TV shows to binge-watch, a packing list for your next trip, software for your business, social media strategies, your bucket list, and a gratitude journal.

You might even be persuaded to try digital list making so you can always access your ideas on your phone when you’re on the go. Personally, I do a mix of printed and digital planners so I get the benefits from writing by hand as well as the ease of use.

Here’s What I Like About the Book

The book takes away the stress of being “perfect” and makes it easy to JUST WRITE. No one’s carving your lists in stone or hanging them in the Louvre.

I also loved the breakdown of unique kinds of lists including to-do lists, pros and cons lists, checklists, research lists, meal plans, budgets, etc.

My favorite lists are progress lists, which you can see in the “Monthly Edit” pages in my Edited Year Planners where you record your successes, challenges, and next steps.

Here’s What I Didn’t Like About the Book

It’s kind of short (under 150 pages) and I was craving more examples and tips after I turned the last page. But this might be a plus for those of you who don’t have time to read a brick-sized book.

I also would have liked more discussion about blocking off time in your schedule to review your lists and put any relevant tasks into your weekly plan.

Here’s my advice: I spend 15 minutes reviewing my lists on Sundays, and then about 5 minutes at the end of my workdays during the week. That’s all it takes to stay on top of my ever-evolving projects.

Your Next Steps

  • Grab your copy of Listful Thinking.
  • Get a cute planner or notebook for your lists, and then try at least one of the list making ideas from the book. For example, you could make a list of next steps for your business, movies to watch, people to connect with, etc.
  • Get your free Life Editing Strategy Call with me so we can discuss your lists and make an action plan to reach your goals.

What lists do you want to write next and how can you make it easier to capture your ideas?

This post focuses on Step 3 of the Life Editing Process, Add Good Habits and Routines. For more about life editing and what it can do for you, click here.

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