The “Done” List: The Simple Motivation Booster Your To-Do List Is Missing
I am a firm believer in my daily Bullet Journal to-do list. It’s a multi-tasking analog tool that keeps me on track towards my goals, reminds me to stop by the dry cleaner, and prompts me to stay connected to my friends and family. And I love that satisfying zing I feel every time I check off a completed task.
As a physician coach with a special interest in time management, I know that conventional advice often focuses on what you haven’t done. Maybe it’s your nagging inbox, those unfinished notes, or the incomplete plans for the rapidly approaching family vacation. Checking those tasks off the list is not only satisfying—it’s also necessary. But sometimes, the most powerful shift comes from celebrating what you have accomplished.
This is where the “Done” List comes in. It’s a surprisingly effective, low-effort tool that can help you feel more in control, less overwhelmed, and even more productive, without adding one more thing to your to-do list.
What Is a “Done” List?
A Done List is exactly what it sounds like: a short, running record of tasks you’ve completed throughout the day or week. It might include big wins like finalizing a research draft, or small victories like responding to a tough patient message with compassion. Maybe it’s fitting in a workout. It could even be something as small but impactful as picking up your shoes from the cobbler.
Unlike a to-do list, which is future-focused and often stress-inducing, the Done List is a tool for self-reflection that builds your confidence, momentum, and motivation. It’s a low-key way to celebrate your daily wins, acknowledging your efforts and helping you to unwind.
Why the Done List Works: The Science Behind It
Research in neuroscience and psychology tells us that recognizing small wins triggers a dopamine release, reinforcing behavior and increasing motivation. Over time, this contributes to a more positive outlook, increased resilience, and stronger follow-through.
It’s more than conjecture. Here are a few key findings that support this affirming practice:
✅The Progress Principle: Harvard researchers Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer found that of all the factors influencing motivation at work, making progress in meaningful tasks was the most powerful—even more than recognition or incentives.
✅Positive reinforcement: Small accomplishments signal success to your brain, and this positive reinforcement can help you build momentum and sustain focus.
✅Burnout buffer: Studies on physician well-being have found that a sense of personal accomplishment is a key protective factor against burnout.
How Physicians can Use a “Done” List
Don’t overthink it. You can start using your Done List immediately—no special tools required. Here’s how to make it work:
⭕Add a “Done” section to your existing system
If you use a bullet journal, planner, or notes app, create a small section labeled “Done Today” or “Wins.” Jot down what you complete throughout the day or at day’s end before bedtime.
For example. in my Bullet Journal, I have a page with a single line devoted to each day of the month. Every evening I list a few things that I’ve done, no matter how seemingly insignificant. Over time, these small wins add up.
⭕Keep it short and sweet
There’s no need to track everything. Just 3–5 items is plenty. Focus on meaningful actions—even small ones. Here are a few examples:
“Had a hard conversation and connected with empathy.”
“Closed all charts before leaving.”
“Meditated for 5 minutes.”
“Said no to an extra commitment I didn’t have capacity for.”
“Walked the dog and chatted with the new neighbor.”
⭕Reflect at the end of the week
Take 5 minutes on Friday or Sunday to scan your Done List. For me, this weekly check-in feels motivating and affirming. Looking back over the month I can see just how much I’ve accomplished, even if the day-to-day felt scattered or incomplete.
Try It This Week
Give your done list a trial run. You don’t need to write much—just a line or two will do. At the end of the week, check in with yourself:
❓Did it make your day feel more manageable?
❓Did it shift how you think about success?
❓Did you notice patterns that could guide your priorities?
❓Did you learn something new or surprising about yourself?
Bottom Line
The Done List is a simple routine, but its effects can be powerful. It can help you see your progress, acknowledge your hard work, and reframe your days through a lens of accomplishment, not just obligation.
When time is tight and expectations run high, this simple ritual can help you regain perspective and show yourself some compassion. As a result, you’ll be setting the stage for greater focus, motivation, and joy in all facets of your life.
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