How do you manage your to-do list?

If you're going to convert your 'to-do list' into a 'done' list - rather than a never-ending ream of jobs to tackle, you need to find the approach that works for you. Here are some ideas of how to breakdown your workload to increase productivity and reduce overwhelm whether you work by yourself, or as part of a team:

Choose a way that works for you - firstly, pick your team: analogue or digital. Do you work best with a good old fashioned paper and pen list that you can tick off, or an app that tracks your workload? Choose whichever works for you and that you will stick to!

Bullet journalling - there is a big buzz around this approach to to-do lists at the moment. Created by Ryder Carroll it takes some practice, but converts swear by this hybrid between to-do list, planner and diary approach to managing your workload and productivity. There is a book to get you started, available here, if you are interested in learning more.

Break it down - rather than one long master list that soon gets unwieldy, breakdown the jobs you need to tackle into work, family, home etc. This will help keep them manageable and targeted. Breakdown your to-do lists even further into daily, weekly, monthly and even long-term lists to allow you to focus on what needs to be done NOW.

Prioritise - once you've drawn up your list read through it and prioritse the order of tasks. If you run out of time it will ensure you have done the essential jobs on the list.

Include easy wins - ticking things off our to-do list makes us more positive and productive, so include some easy wins. Even if it's putting a load of laundry on or posting on social media. Including these simple, easy to complete tasks will give you a boost that will help you tackle the 'bigger' jobs.

Delegate - there are loads of software options out there when it comes to sharing to-do lists with your family, partner or colleagues. The ability to delegate responsibility and work as a team - whether at work or at home is key to getting the job done and reducing your feeling of overwhelm. Choose a method that allows you to track progress and put timeframes to each task to ensure efficient teamwork.

Be realistic - there are only 24 hours in a day and 7 days in a week... look at each daily and weekly list and put a timescale next to each task. Is it realistic to fit all of these tasks into your day/week? It is better to scale back and achieve all you set out to do, rather than feel dispondent and demoralised when you never reach the bottom of your list.

Create a 'done' list - boost your positivity by creating a 'done' list at the end of each day or week to show yourself everything you have achieved. These work really well, especially when you are frustrated or 'stuck' on a certain project as reading what you HAVE achieved in black and white will help you feel a sense of achievement.