Checklists: A Shortcut to Clearer Thinking

I stumbled upon Robb Seaton’s blog and I really enjoy it. From his site and others, I’ve read a lot about checklists while on vacation in 云南 (Yunnan) with my girlfriend. I know, I should be reading less and looking at the scenery more, but I can’t help it. Reading is supposed to be good for you, anyway.

I figured I’d make a checklist of things I should do before bed. I need some more habits in my life. I don’t seem to develop (good) habits well.

What to do before sleeping

• brush teeth (this deserves its own checklist, simple as it is)
• floss
• pee
• lay out clothes I’ll wear tomorrow
• prepare any other equipment/materials necessary for the next day
• make bed (I’m lazy, don’t do it in the morning)
• shower or at least wash face (to appease Chinese girlfriend)
• turn on bedside lamp, turn off overhead light
• get in bed
• write journal entry on computer (I’m faster typing than writing)
• finish flashcards if they haven’t been done yet

I’m considering using company paper to print off a bunch of these lists and actually check them off a few nights, and afterwards putting them somewhere visible as a reminder.

Speaking of work, I’m a teacher, and I should make some more checklists for teaching a class, too. It should make me a better teacher, or at least a better employee in my boss’s eyes.

Other things to make a list for:

• transcribing/arranging songs
• writing songs
• preparing a class
• practicing guitar
• brushing teeth (already mentioned)
• writing an article (see the end of the linked article)
• packing for travel
• communicating relationship problems to the girlfriend
• solving a problem with code
• taking pictures

With no data whatsoever, I estimate that these make up 80% or more of my daily life. Codifying them with checklists requires me to identify best practices and reflect on my habits.