The joy of making lists

On your calendar or in a diary or on loose notes: making lists has many advantages. Here are just a few.

• Peace of mind
  Suppose you have to write an important e-mail. Or you want to send a card to a friend. But right now you have no time for that. Even if you’re the forgetful type, chances are that this task will stay on your mind all day. “We often have many different projects on our plate,” says professional organizer Els Jacobs. “Work, family, home, social activities. A mix of big and small tasks that we mustn’t forget. Your mind gets overcrowded. With a to-do list, you avoid forgetting something. And what you write down, you can then let go. That’s why it’s the best way to create peace of mind.”