Mustn't overdo...

I don't know if you do this, but when I try to push myself to do too much, nothing gets done.

I'm a big "to do" list maker.

However, if I jot down every miniscule thing I believe needs to be finished or accomplished? The list gets so long it looks like ancient scrolls of infinite tasks that become humanly impossible. It ends up feeling too overwhelming. I think, "Who am I kidding? I'll never get all this done!"

Then I tend to bag it and do something I enjoy instead.

Success comes when I write down only the very important - few - things that need my attention. With a short but crucial (and realistic) list of tasks, I tend to not only complete those items but every little thing that comes to my mind along the way and still have time to pursue activities I love.

I'm sure there's an insightful, psychological reason for sabotaging myself when I write those ridiculously long "to do" lists, but I don't want to take the time to figure it out because 1) it's not on my short list and 2) there are more enjoyable ways I prefer to spend my time.