Forget To-Do Lists. This Year—Try This Instead

 To-do lists are a great way to get your tasks done without burdening your mind with the task of “remembering” what to do.

But is your to-do list burdening you?

Do you ever look back and appreciate yourself for all that you’ve already done?

Have you tried creating a “Have Done” list?

This year, create an “I’ve Done This” list—one where you record your smallest and biggest accomplishments.

Grab a fresh notebook (my favorite part of starting any journaling habit),
Pick your favorite pen,
Title it “My List of Accomplishments”,
And begin updating it daily.

Yes, daily. Write down even the smallest task you completed—especially those that felt difficult or brought you joy.

The world is busy. Everyone’s doing their own thing—and honestly, that’s a good thing.

I admire people who mind their own business.

You, too, should be busy doing your thing. But that also means pausing to reflect on how far you’ve come.

We’re often chasing the next big milestone, forgetting to notice the little victories we achieve along the way.

I learned how to publish my journals and sell them on Amazon—and even today, I remain in awe of that process.

It wasn’t easy. Every moment I spent learning, making mistakes, and correcting them was worth it.
I love designing journals. It’s one of the few hobbies I get paid for, and it was always a dream to create my own journal brand.

I’m also a stay-at-home mom with a toddler who needs constant supervision. I can’t take my eyes off her even for a moment, because the second I do, she somehow finds her way to something dangerous. (Yes, I’ve baby-proofed everything to the best of my ability!)

But you know what? I’m tired of trying to be the “perfect” mother—the always-happy version of who I think my child deserves.

I’m done with the to-do lists that others imposed on me.
Lists that pointed out what I was failing at, instead of celebrating my efforts.
Even if all I did was hold my baby and breathe.

Now, I pause every day to ask:
What did I do right today?

I’m focusing on what I’ve done right, instead of stressing over an endless to-do list.

Because as much as my baby needs my attention, my mental health—my life—does too.

So this year, promise yourself this:
Appreciate yourself a little more.
Give yourself that much-needed pat on the back.