Checklists are popular because they work with how attention behaves. When you write steps down, you move the burden from memory to a reliable external system.
That is why pilots and surgeons use checklists even with years of experience. Expertise does not eliminate distraction.
Keep them short and specific
The best personal checklists are short and specific. “Plan day” is vague. “Pick top 3 tasks” is executable.
Use checklists for repeatable routines: packing, weekly review, meal prep, or publishing a post. If you repeat it, you can refine it.
Always have a “minimum version”
Keep a minimum version for busy days. Do the essential two steps so the routine survives. In the long run, the value is not the boxes—it is the calm you feel when nothing is floating in your head.