To Do lists are thousands of years old.

Even the Buddha used them. One of the lists the Buddha offered his students is called The Four Right Efforts.

The Buddha suggested this list in the context of living an enlightened life. But, even if you’re not seeking enlightenment, it works.

You can use The Four Right Efforts to improve your career. Become a better leader. Build a team. Get a project back on track. Heal a strained relationship.

Here are the Four Right Efforts:

1. Reduce doing those actions that are making things worse.
2. Stop doing actions that are making things worse.
3. Start doing actions that make things better.
4. Strengthen or reinforce actions that make things better.

Like most wisdom, this list may sound pretty simple.

Like common sense. The trick is using it. Because, when you apply the list to your life and work – it becomes powerful.

Here’s how to take this bit of ancient wisdom and make it work for you today:
Consider a project, relationship, situation that you’re struggling with a bit. One you’re not satisfied with and that you want to change. Pick one that really matters to you.

What are you doing, thinking, saying that is perpetuating the situation or even making it worse?

• How can you reduce those actions? (Right Effort #1):
• Which can you simply stop? (Right Effort #2):

What kinds of thought, speech, actions would make things better?

• How can you start doing some of those? (Right Effort #3):
• How can you strengthen or reinforce the ones you’re already doing? (Right Effort #4):

What’s some other ancient wisdom that you’re using to make your work/life better today?

Related posts:

1. How to stop spinning your wheels
2. Does your to-do list matter?
3. Facing Fear: A 10-second tutorial
4. Mindfulness, Marines, & Sweet Potatoe Pie
5. How do you celebrate success?