3 Reasons You Need To Make Lists While Planning Your Party

Most of us hosts are obsessive list-makers (and proud of it, thank you very much!). In fact, I have found that the better the host (or event planner), the more lists they create. While there are a thousand apps for party planning, organizing, reminding etc, I have found that most of us hosts have one very major thing in common – a penchant for a good, old-fashioned pen and paper list.

Your hosting style will, of course, designate the way in which you keep your lists, but chances are, if you’re like the rest of us, you’ll want a brand-new mini notepad that fits in your purse or pocket to write down your ideas and plans. More tech-savvy hosts may want to find the perfect smartphone app for organizing their party. Whatever the medium, make sure you keep lists – menus, guest lists, RSVPs, outstanding RSVPs and, of course, a timeline for when everything needs to be done for your party. But why are lists so important?

1. A Sense of Accomplishment

There is something very powerful about striking an item off your to-do list! Accomplished items are tiny triumphs that will keep you motivated.

2. Brilliance Strikes While You’re Doing Something Else

Ideas come at the most inconvenient times (like in the shower, while driving, in the dentist’s chair). With your piece of paper and a pen at the ready, you will be sure not to forget a moment of creative genius!

3. Sleep Better Tonight

The act of writing something down on a piece of paper clears it from your mind, and you will find it easier to think, relax, sleep and be ultimately more productive.

The irony is not lost on me – I know that I just gave you a list about why you should make party planning lists. Party hosts and organizers are naturally drawn to a great, well-organized list. (I even have an event planner friend who makes rough copies of all of her lists, and then makes a “good copy” afterwards so it’s more visually pleasing!) Experiment with your own lists and see how your own party hosting productivity goes up, while your stress goes down.

What type of lists should I make?