What Kind of List-Maker Are You?
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Are you a Monkey, Squirrel, Tiger, or Dolphin when it comes to making lists?
I had the pleasure of talking about this with Arrianee LeBeau & Kendis Gibson on PIX11 in NYC, where I shared insights into the four types of list makers — and how understanding your style can help you be more productive and stress-free!
Monkeys love their color-coded, perfectly organized lists.
Squirrels jot down ideas on anything they can find, from receipts to napkins.
Tigers focus on today’s tasks, conquering their lists one day at a time.
Dolphins rely on apps and digital tools to streamline their lives.
Figuring out your list-making type can help you optimize your productivity by embracing your unique style!
1) Monkey list makers are smart, efficient, and energetic.
You might be a monkey if you have a list for everything — and if your lists are organized, color-coded, or in specific notebooks/apps. Monkeys love making lists (sometimes more than actually doing tasks!).
How can they be more productive?
Since monkeys are great at planning and sometimes need to focus on execution, it’s a good idea to set deadlines for each task to avoid over-planning. Monkeys can also break large projects into smaller pieces to keep their momentum.
2) Squirrel list makers are resourceful, creative, and use whatever is available to make their lists.
Squirrel list makers write their lists on random scraps like receipts or envelopes. They’re likely to combine everything into one list (e.g., “write book” next to “buy milk”). They’re creative powerhouses, so they might add doodles or brainstorm big ideas on their lists.
Yep — they collect ideas on their lists just like squirrels get acorns. If this sounds like you, you might be a squirrel.
How can they be more productive?
Squirrel list makers can benefit from organization, including transferring ideas into a categorized master list. You can also try separating creative projects from everyday tasks to prioritize effectively.
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3) Tiger list makers are solitary and focus on one goal at a time.
Tiger list makes live in the moment. They write a daily to-do list focused only on immediate tasks, and prefer tackling one day at a time. They also enjoy throwing away a completed list.
How can they be more productive?
If you identify as a tiger, try adding one long-term goal to your daily list to balance focus with big-picture planning. You can also schedule quarterly reviews to map out your future priorities.
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4) Dolphin list makers are intelligent, quick-thinking, and social.
Dolphin list makers are inconsistent with their lists — but they’re also streamlined. You might be a dolphin if you use multiple productivity apps and synced calendars. Dolphins are tech-savvy and they outsource tasks with tools like TaskRabbit or Fancy Hands.
Dolphins often rely on digital organization but may struggle without tech. And finally, dolphins are social and enjoy collaboration in their work.
How can they be more productive?
Dolphins can pair digital tools with handwritten lists to cement key priorities. Keep a small notebook handy for when tech fails or ideas strike on the go. You can also leverage your social tendencies with an accountability group.
Knowing what kind of list maker you are will make you more productive. It’s normal to exhibit traits from multiple types. Flexibility is your superpower!
Use different styles for different tasks: Squirrel for brainstorming, Monkey for detailed planning, Tiger for daily to-dos, and Dolphin for big projects. By leaning into the strengths of each type, you can create a system that’s uniquely yours.
You can watch the full PIX11 segment here for even more insights on productivity personalities.
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BONUS FREEBIE: Want even more ways to stay organized, productive and less stressed? CLICK HERE to get access to my List-Making Starter Kit. It will boost your efficiency and get you back to doing more of the things you love.
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