How Checklists Simplify My Life as a Director of Nursing and a Single Parent

Do you use a checklist?

If not, let me tell you why you should start today.

As a Director of Nursing and a single parent, my checklist is my lifeline—it keeps me on task and helps me avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Without it? I’d probably be buried under paperwork and dirty dishes. 😂

I’ve built a habit of brain dumping everything in the morning and again before bed—literally anything I think of, I write down.

From there, I create a categorized checklist: what I need to tackle myself and what can be delegated.

It’s more than just checking things off a list, though.

Each task has steps, and by breaking it down for myself (and those I delegate to), I make sure everything is done right.

Using this process has been a game-changer for managing my time.

Whether it’s running a team meeting, implementing a new step by step process for education, or organizing my children’s day, my checklist keeps me focused and efficient.

I recently read The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande, and it’s taken my list-making to the next level!

It taught me how to simplify my tasks even further—seriously, a must-read if you're checklist obsessed like me. 🙌

Here is how I use it to educate my team!

1. Creates Clear Expectations: A checklist makes sure everyone knows what needs to be done. No confusion, no missed steps—just clear, straightforward tasks that set your team up for success.

2. Breaks Down Complex Tasks: Some things can be overwhelming to teach all at once. By breaking tasks into smaller, actionable steps, you make it easier for your team to learn.

3. Reinforces Accountability: Each item on a checklist is a responsibility. Once it’s on the list, your team is held accountable for getting it done, reinforcing their commitment to learning and completing tasks properly. It's the accountability for Me!!!

4. Improves Consistency: Every team member learns the same process in the same way with a checklist. This is key in maintaining consistency and ensuring everyone is on the same page.

5. Enhances Time Management: When educating your team, time is always a factor. A checklist ensures that training stays on schedule and nothing is skipped.

6. Encourages Independence: With a checklist, your team can work independently, completing tasks without constant guidance. It’s a way to empower them while also tracking their progress.

7. Tracks Progress and Identifies Gaps: When you review checklists, it’s easy to see where team members are excelling and where they might need more help. This makes the training process more effective.

Checklists are more than a to-do list—they’re a tool that can help you and your team thrive.

What about you? Do you use a checklist?

How has it improved your productivity and time management?