Micro-Step #18: The To-Do List Trick That Quietly Doubled My Motivation
Last week, I had a realization that reshaped how I approach my to-do list aka daily tasks.
I’ve always known that writing down five things I need to complete each day helps me stay focused. Even if a couple carry over to the next day, that simple list keeps me grounded and accountable.
But last week, it hit me:
These aren’t just tasks.
They’re small goals.
Each one gets me a little closer to my bigger goals.
Each one deserves a moment of recognition.
Your Brain Loves Small Wins
Here’s why this shift matters:
When we think of goals, we often think big — launch a business, land a dream client, write a book. But science says we’re more likely to stay motivated when we break those goals down into small, manageable actions.
According to the American Psychological Association, achieving small goals releases dopamine, the feel-good chemical, which boosts your drive to keep going. A study from Microsoft found that 73% of people feel calmer when they use a to-do list, just by having things written down in front of them.
When I started looking at my to-do list this way, things improved.
Not overnight. But steadily.
I felt more in control. More focused.
And yes, more proud of my progress.
“When I started viewing my daily tasks as small goals, each one became a stepping stone toward my larger vision. This simple shift transformed my productivity and brought a new level of motivation to my work.”
— Tisha Littlejohn
Try the “One Goal at a Time” Challenge
Start with just one meaningful task each day.
Call it a goal.
Write it down in your planner, on a sticky note, or in a notebook.
Do that for a week.
Then next week?
Add a second.
Keep going until you reach five.
Then stay there.
Five small, powerful steps toward the life and business you want.
Why It Works
- It’s clear – you know exactly what matters today
- It’s motivating – every task completed is a win
- It’s realistic – no more 15-item lists that leave you drained
This isn’t a new productivity hack.
It’s a mindset shift that changes how you see your work.
It reminds you that you are making progress, even on the tough days.
Psychologists also point to your brain’s Reticular Activating System – the part responsible for focus and prioritization – as being more engaged when you physically write things down. It’s how your brain marks something as “important.” Simply writing down a daily goal can help you stay on track throughout the day.
Try it tomorrow.
Pick one goal.
Write it down.
Then get it done, not because it’s a task, but because it’s a step closer to the version of you you are becoming.
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