I currently have approximately 1,378 things on my to-do list.  Perhaps you can relate? On top of that, I’m constantly thinking of ideas that I don’t want to lose.

There is a lot to keep track of, and that’s where Workflowy can help.

But first, let’s talk about the necessity of getting down on paper all those things in our mind.  We all only possess a finite amount of mental space with which we can commit to keeping track of things.  In “Getting Things Done”, the author David Allen explains that getting everything out of your mind (tasks, appointments, ideas, worries, etc.) is the key to true productivity.  It is critical to commit all of these things in our mind to writing, in an effort to clear our minds and free them for productive thoughts.

This is where Workflowy comes in.   This free web-based program (with accompanying mobile app) allows you to create lists, strike-through items, and my favorite-  add hashtags.

Here’s how I use it:

*  I have my life broken down into the roles I manage– Program Developer, Mentor, Sharpen the Saw, Personal Life, Family Member, and Fire Fighter (emergencies).

*   Under each of these I have a running list of to-do’s, personal ideas, and suggestions from others.

*  I do a quick review of these on a regular basis.  These lists are searchable, so I add hashtags such as #October, #POW/ROA, or #today.  Then for example when I want to search for things I wanted to think about in October, I can search #October.

*  That’s it!  The best part is all this information is web-based and can be accessed from any device.

Hurray for clear minds!