‘To-Do’ lists and ‘To-Be’ lists

The doing often is driven by the being. While “to-do” lists are pretty common, making a “to-be” list can be a game changer. “What do I want to be?” I ask myself

My “To-Be” List Emerges

Be more decisive

Be faster to act

Always be kind

Be open to exploring new things

Be bolder

Be Myself

Be a better friend

Reflecting on how I want to be, leads me to my “To-Do” list

Finalise xxx

Approve yyy

Thank zzz

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My decision to focus on my way of being gives shape to my to-do list. Where attention goes, energy flows. Living intentionally and authentically stems from a place of being that flows into all my doing. Too much focus on the doing without reflecting on the being is often what leads to a lack of fulfilment because all the doing is designed around being who and what others want of and from me. Anchored in my sense of self, the doing can still be in service of others but the difference is that it will be driven by my inner guidance system and that often is what makes the doing sustainable. It is not driven by external forces, it’s self-propelled and hence flows easily.

The doing-being connection is about finding meaning in what we do. The “To-Do” list suddenly becomes personal and matters to each one of us. I often say “The why matters”. When I am clear why I am doing what I’m doing my ability to do it is enhanced.

“How do I become more of who I am meant to be?” I am sure many roads lead to me and my authentic self. The one that I found was the scenic route of coaching. Working with a coach and being a coach are both experiences that keep showing me the way. Coach mode on, here I come world.

Nikhil Dey is a certified ICF coach and founder of soul2solecoaching. He is the first recipient of the ICF India coaching excellence rising star award.