Stepping Beyond The To Do List (With Erik Fisher)
As the year winds down, I enter a reflective mode. Thinking back on the last twelve months—what’s changed? What happened? Are there any open loops? It’s a time when the balance between assessing goals and contemplating new possibilities can feel particularly significant. That’s why I thought it would be the perfect moment to bring Erik Fisher into The Haven for a conversation on stepping beyond the never-ending to-do list.
Erik Fisher hosts Beyond the To-Do List, a podcast that explores their work-life balance, the philosophies behind human productivity, and the practices that help us make a creative difference without burning out. His perspective is encouraging and grounded, and I knew his insights would be precious for anyone navigating the challenge of balancing productivity with a meaningful and sustainable life.
What It Means to Step Beyond the To-Do List
Erik’s podcast isn’t just about getting more done—it’s about making the right things matter. The concept of stepping beyond the to-do list is rooted in the idea that we can live intentionally by shifting from task management to aligning our actions with our values and purpose. It’s about creating a life where work isn’t just a list of items to cross off but a reflection of who we are and what we genuinely care about.
When you step back from the chaos of your daily list, you focus on the things that matter. It’s about looking beyond the checkboxes and asking: What do I want to build this year? What relationships do I want to nurture? What work makes me feel alive?
Connecting with People Without Overwhelm
A big part of stepping beyond the to-do list is connecting with the right people—whether for collaboration, guidance, or support. But with so many demands on our attention, how do we reach out without feeling overwhelmed or worried about rejection? Erik emphasises the importance of intentional outreach and prioritising relationships that align with our goals.
Instead of trying to be everywhere and connect with everyone, focus on a select group of people who share your values and interests. Building deep, authentic relationships can give you the support and inspiration to keep moving forward.
Setting the Right Goals and Thinking Small
Erik stresses the importance of setting goals that matter to us—often, that means thinking small. Many people set lofty, long-term goals, only to burn out or feel disillusioned when they don’t see immediate results. The key, Erik explains, is breaking things down into manageable steps that are easier to tackle day by day.
Small “goals” keep us on track, allow us to celebrate progress, and avoid the overwhelm that often comes with too much on our plates. By focusing on what’s in front of us, we can gain clarity and confidence and build momentum for bigger things.
Setting Your Day Up Right
How we start our day sets the tone for everything that follows. Erik shares how establishing an intentional morning ritual has been crucial in stepping beyond the to-do list. The particulars don’t matter as much as the routine. Whether through meditation, a morning walk, or simply taking time to reflect, setting ourselves up for a proactive, calm, intentional day can make all the difference.
Chances of having a good day can be supported by a sense of clarity. When we start our mornings by aligning our actions with our sense of purpose, we set ourselves up to move forward with greater focus and energy. It’s about establishing the right mindset before diving into the tasks.
Stepping Back, Unplugging, and Resting
Finally, one of the most critical aspects Erik and I discussed is the need to step back, unplug, and rest periodically. The temptation to keep going, to constantly push forward, can be overwhelming. Still, Erik points out that meaningful productivity isn’t about relentless hustle but knowing when to pause and recharge.
Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Taking time to rest and reflect ensures that we return to our work with fresh eyes and renewed energy, ready to tackle the next step in alignment with our values and long-term goals.
Stepping beyond the to-do list isn’t just about managing tasks more effectively; it’s about aligning our actions with what truly matters to us.
Watch The Conversation
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Would you like to dive deeper into any of these themes as you prepare for a season of change? My Pick The Lock sessions are a great way to explore the possibilities.
