Often the simplest things work best.

Ivan

If you see what I mean.

In other words, you are working through a big list, but how do you decide which items on the list to do first? Are you working from a plan?

<you aren't covering HOW those things you choose to do that day, end up being the things you HAVE to do that day. <you are working through a big list & how do you decide which items on the list to do first?
Sure, I see what you're saying.

Like most of us I’m under the whip to produce things every, so I find lists helpful, but only up to a point.

What I've started to do recently – and it seems to be working – is spending 15 min every night checking where I wasted time and where I was more productive.

Trends begin to emerge and I try to iron things (circular emails can be a big time-waster) and also see where I've made little quick wins. Then I fine tune my weekly plan for the next day…

The next morning I have a quick mtg with myself (I know!) and create a little plan of attack.

I list what I plan to do AND prepare contingencies in case others try to distract me,

“Ivan, I forgot to tell you about this meeting – can you pop in?”

“Does the PM know about this? She’s expected my status report at 4?”

How do you manage these type of situations? e.g. when others try to pull you in 4 directions at the same time – and all are kinda justified — but you'll take the hit if your deadlines get missed.