Feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list? You’re not alone! In this episode, we’re diving into why your list keeps growing, why you never seem to finish it, and the sneaky habits that make it worse. Are you overcommitting? Adding tasks just in case? Rewriting the same list every day?I’ll share my simple system to take control of your tasks, prioritize what actually matters, and finally break free from to-do list overload. Plus, get a sneak peek into our upcoming Spring Clean Your Calendar Challenge!
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Rather read? Check out the show notes and episode content right here!
Show Notes: Why Your To-Do List Is Too Long
Hey, hey friend! Welcome to Episode #223 of The Secrets of Supermom Show!
Today, we’re tackling a big one—your never-ending to-do list. If you feel like you’re constantly checking things off but never actually getting ahead, you’re not alone. Let’s break down why your to-do list is too long and what you can do to finally regain control.
Why Is Your To-Do List Too Long?
There are a few common reasons why your to-do list feels overwhelming:
1. You Have Overcommitment Syndrome
Are you always saying “yes” to every request? From helping with school events to taking on extra work assignments, it’s easy to fill your plate with commitments that don’t align with your priorities. Before agreeing to something, ask yourself:
- Do I want to do this?
- Will this bring me closer to my goals?
- Does this support the life I want to live?
If the answer is no, it’s time to start saying no!
2. You Treat Everything as Urgent
Do you lump major tasks (like booking a doctor’s appointment) with minor ones (like returning a neighbor’s Tupperware) on the same list? Without prioritization, your brain treats everything as urgent—even when it’s not. Instead, try sorting tasks into categories:
- Must do today
- Nice to do this week
- Can wait
3. You Operate with a “Just in Case” Mentality
Ever added something to your list just in case you might want to do it? If you keep writing down “research meal plans” when you’ve already meal-prepped for the week, you’re creating unnecessary stress. Instead, ask: Do I truly intend to do this now? If not, let it go.
4. You’re Taking On Others’ Tasks
Are you tracking your family’s to-dos alongside your own? It’s one thing to delegate, but it’s another to carry the mental load of everyone’s responsibilities. Set boundaries and let others manage their own tasks.
The Traps That Keep You Stuck
1. Equating Busyness with Productivity
Checking off the most tasks doesn’t mean you’ve had a productive day. True productivity comes from focusing on what actually moves the needle in your life.
2. The Rewriting Loop
Are you rewriting the same tasks day after day? If so, your system isn’t working. Instead of carrying over unfinished tasks endlessly, it’s time for a new approach.
3. The “Someday” Illusion
If you’ve been writing “start learning Spanish” for six months without action, it’s time to face reality. Without a concrete plan, these tasks will never get done. Either schedule time for it or remove it from your list.
The Supermom Strategy for a Manageable To-Do List
At The Supermom Society, we use a simple yet powerful system:
- Create a Master To-Do List – Store all your tasks in one place, whether in a planner or a digital notes app.
- Plan Your Week in Advance – At the start of each week, review your master list and choose what actually needs to get done.
- Schedule Tasks Into Your Calendar – Instead of a daily “to-do” list, block time for each task. If it’s not scheduled, it’s not happening!
- Stop Looking at the List Daily – Only reference your daily plan, not your master list. This reduces overwhelm and decision fatigue.
By using this method, you’ll only see the tasks you can realistically complete each day—no more endless, stress-inducing lists!
Ready to Detox Your Calendar?
If your to-do list still feels out of control, it’s time for a change. Join our Spring Clean Your Calendar Challenge, where we’ll help you reclaim your time and feel more in control of your days. Sign up now at SecretsOfSupermom.com/spring.
Try this strategy and let me know how it works for you! Send me an email or DM me on Instagram—I’d love to hear how it’s changing your life.
Until next time, let’s take back our time and stop letting our to-do lists run the show!
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About the Host: Lori Oberbroeckling
Lori Whitney Oberbroeckling is a mom of four, corporate leader, podcaster, productivity expert, and author of the book Secrets of Supermom: How Extraordinary Moms Succeed at Work and Home & How You Can Too!
She is passionate about helping parents who want fulfilling careers–or side hustles or passion projects–while also wanting to feel present and connected to their families.
