How to Make Better Lists

Lists. Lists. Oh, how I love my lists!

Admittedly, I sometimes cross over into obsession (confession: sometimes when I do something that isn’t on the list, I'll add it just so I can cross it out).

As compulsions go, I’m okay with this is one.

I used to write my grocery lists on paper, sometimes forget the sheet at home, and then try to remember what we needed as I stood in the produce department. Not efficient.

Always one for an update, I came up with a brilliant idea several years ago. (Yes, I just bragged, and I highly recommend you practice doing it too!) 😊

Google Drive was new and I had already used it for my business (back when I had Allison's Gourmet), so why not do so for my personal life—starting with our grocery list?

With the ability to create spreadsheets, I set up a list of what we buy, arranged by department, with boxes to enter the quantity.

After I fill out my list in the kitchen (or David fills it out from home while I’m on my way to the store), I use the Google Drive app on my phone to see the list at the store.

As soon as it goes into the cart, I erase the number so I know I have it and now, the sheet will be blank for the next shopping trip.

Since Google Drive also allows sharing documents with other people, I gave David access so that when he’s out and about, he can easily pick up whatever we need. Very efficient.

One of the 8 Holistic Self-care Principles I coach my clients with is Creating Space. Making shopping lists like this has saved me so much time and freed up mental space for more important things.

With love,

P.S. Join me on Saturday, January 27:

• If you’re in the Sacramento area, I'll be speaking at the SacTown VegFest.
• Online, check out my interview on the Healthy Under Pressure Summit. Register for free here.