The Crazy List Lady

Relax.

        As I mentioned in my post about my trip to Spain(read it here> Barcelona Bound), I have a list obsession. If I pulled out of all of my lists on any given day, you would look at me like I'm completely insane(mostly because I am). I sometimes consolidate them, but that doesn't stop them from multiplying. Even if I get rid of one list, another comes along to replace it. I don't even look back at some of them for weeks, months or even years!
        I don't make lists for the satisfaction of checking the items off; I make them because I've always believed in the idea that writing something down solidifies it. In my experience, I'm more likely to remember something if I write it down, especially with a pen and paper. This also might have to do with the way my brain works; seeing it in writing sticks with me. My thoughts are constantly racing, so getting some of them out of my mind frees up space so I can focus on the here and now. Of course, we are all very different and this method may not work for you. As with everything in life, you have to do what works YOU, not what works for me or for anyone else.
        I have a list of countries and destinations I want to travel to. I have lists for this week, lists for the event I'm planning next weekend and a list for my next trip...the list of lists goes on and on. I often write down what I'm grateful for. This helps me bring the good things in life to the front of my mind. There are a lot of things to thank about & it feels good to exhaust all of them; right down to my shoes, my sight(thanks to technology and lasik sugery) and the other blessings I take for granted. Even my dream board is in list form, which I modify as my dreams and motivations change. I was never able to watch my accomplishments come to fruition until I started this practice. Looking back and seeing just how far I've come is extremely fulfilling. Plus, it fills me with hope for the future.
        My personal policy is to write it all and write too much. Bringing a thought to life is a smoother transition for me when it first passes through my pen. Our thoughts can't always be positive, so I like to celebrate and encourage the good ones when they come. I wouldn't suggest going list-crazy like I am("everything in moderation"), but try writing down what you're grateful for and what you hope for! It can even help you make sense of what you really want. Do you want a new job? Write down exactly what you want it to be like(flexible, fulfilling, no weekends, etc.) Do you want to find love? Write down the qualities in a partner that are important to you with the most important ones at the top. I made a list like this when I was single, confused and hopeless a couple years back. I forgot all about it until recently and it was awesome to see that my current partner has all of the qualities that were and still are the most important to me.
        When I get overwhelmed, I like to meditate, do yoga and repeat encouraging mantras out loud to myself, like "It will all get done." What methods work for you for staying positive and making things happen in your life?