Why You Should Have a 'Done Today' Habit

Why You Should Have a 'Done Today' Habit

To-do lists end days with 'I didn't finish'. Writing down 5-7 things you actually accomplished each day produces different relationship with work — based on real output rather than perpetual undone tasks.

How to track

End of each workday, 2 minutes. List specific accomplishments (responded to that hard email, completed report, had productive 1-on-1). Include small wins. Keep digital file or paper notebook.

Why it matters

Counters perpetual 'I didn't do enough' narrative. Reveals weeks of unrecognised productivity. Surfaces accomplishments to use in performance reviews and CV updates. Improves mood about work.

Most workers underestimate their own productivity dramatically. The done list makes the actual output visible — usually larger than imagined.