Why I keep to a small to-do list (even when my brain doesn't)

Some weeks, my energy dips. My thoughts spiral. Even the simple idea of writing a list feels like too much. That’s when my bullet journal steps in—not as a productivity engine, but as a lifeline.

The Sunday Brain Dump: A Double-Edged Vorpal Sword

Every Sunday, I sit down for the big brain dump. Work tasks, errands, home chores, personal care—all of it lands on the weekly page. It’s essential, because it gives me a map of what’s on my plate.

But I won’t sugarcoat it: the process is heavy. Sometimes it feels like wandering the Tulgey Wood. There are weeks when just seeing the pile is enough to spark a stress response. Still, without that initial dump, I wouldn’t know what to draw from for my daily task lists.

Why I Keep My Daily Lists Small

Each morning, I set the mood with stickers—a tarot spread, a sigil circle, definitely some Wonderland decoration. This isn’t just filler—it’s intentional design. The result? Only a handful of lines left for tasks. Enough to keep me busy and moving, but not enough to overwhelm or drown me.

Keeping the list short means I choose with intention: the tasks that truly matter, the ones that keep my business and life afloat. And when the list is done, I stop “spending”—more on that in a moment.

• Some days, finishing early feels like freedom. I can dive into a spoon-refreshing craft project.

• Other days, it’s sobering. I’ve spent all the spoons I had before noon, and the rest of the day has to be gentler to make space for tomorrow.

Spoon Theory and Softer Tasks

This is where spoon theory comes in. My energy isn’t unlimited—it’s finite, measured. On low days, every item on the page costs a spoon or more. A short list keeps me from overspending.

I’m also learning to honor softer tasks and recognize which ones replenish my spoons. Watching how-to videos, cuddling my cat, sitting with a game or sketchpad—these don’t drain me. They restore me, or at least don’t take more than I have. They may not look “productive,” but they keep tomorrow possible.

The Takeaway: Small Lists, Sustainable Energy

So yes, I keep my daily lists small. Not because I’m lazy or unmotivated, but because I’m human—and I’ve learned to accommodate my limits. Brain dumps give me the whole map, but only I can choose which path I walk each day—toward the Mad Tea Party or the March Hare’s house.

And just as importantly: rest and gentleness deserve space on the page right beside errands and emails.

Ask yourself this: how small could your list be, and still keep you moving without losing yourself along the way?

Honeysuckle