Thoughts on the Long List

While I’ve been semi-incapacitated recently (suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome on top of the expected side-effects of chemotherapy), I’ve been working on an outline for a book on the subject of the “catch-all” list.

My theory is that a properly handled and practised list removes the need for prioritization, goal-setting, planning and deadline-chasing - real “autofocus” in other words.

It’s not dependent on any particular way of handling the list, though I’ve found simple scanning to be the easiest and most reliable for my own use. It’s more a change of attitude than a new system.

Typing is still very difficult for me so my intention at the moment is to write about this in dribs and drabs over the next few weeks (or possibly months). We’ll see whether the “long list theory” supports me in doing this in practice.

Comments

[Chris Cooper]

Good wishes for getting through everything that life is throwing at you, Mark. I know the community won't want to add to your workload by posing questions or speculations here. We can address them to each other in the forums if we want to.

Good luck again. No response required!

Chris

[Leon]

Best wishes Mark, our thoughts are with you.

[Ray Fowler]

Sounds interesting as always. Thank you for sharing with us and hope you get your health and strength back soon.

[skeg]

best wishes

[Margaret1]

That's wonderful, Mark - hope you're finding concentrating on developing your systems a help in getting through the challenges. Best wishes.

[Frank]

All the best, Mark. Hope your situation improves.

[David Coyer]

Just seeing this now, Mark. Please know that I am in prayer for you that "...my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."

[nuntym]

You are in my prayers Mark. Thank you for all the good you have given to us.

[Will]

Great to hear from you again, Mark.

I found your arguments against long lists in Secrets convincing-principally, that they dilute focus. But as always, I look forward to your results.

We are all rooting for you.

[teckwyn]

Looking forward to read your Long List Theory!

All the best.

[Cricket]

Best wishes to you and your family during this difficult time.

[Rafael]

Hello Mark,

Best wishes for you. May your health improve the fastest way possible.

Regards

[Mark Forster]

Thanks to everyone for their good wishes. Sorry I haven't been able to reply individually.

[Don R]

> It’s not dependent on any particular way of handling the list [...] It’s more a change of attitude than a new system.

Color me intrigued!

You are in my thoughts daily. Hoping the best for you.

[Pablo]

Best wishes for you, Mark. I really hope you recover fast.

[Tommy]

Praying for you Mark. God bless!

[Colin]

All best wishes to you Mark, and to the family.

Looking forward to your dribs and drabs!