7 Keys to Creating a Great List

1. Start your list with the number 1 and then go from there.
2. Use original and memorable words to describe your list like "key" and "great."
3. Never at any point give in to the creeping fear that your list isn't necessary.
4. Use humor, act witty but if you can't write a short statement which will appear profound.
5. Do it.
6. Save your best, "gotcha" item for last. The second-to-last item can be a throw-away.
7. Never, never do more or less items than you originally promised.
8. Enjoy the process!

Comments (14)

A+

Posted by julie | July 3, 2009 11:08 PM

A 7 keys list... with 8 keys! I guess the "throw-away" key makes it 7! :-)

Posted by Cliff Peterson | July 3, 2009 11:16 PM

I'm sorry but I don't understand what this is for. Are you planning to create a list soon or something like that or it's just purely for teaching purpose for us to know how to create a list?

anyway if it's the latter then it's funny.uhmm the number 1 is. lol! anyway i also like the last, everything must be enjoyable. not just in creating a list but really in doing anything. Blessings to you Josh!

Posted by Mikes Sumondong | July 3, 2009 11:16 PM

Oh I didn't notice that. There are 8 things. Thanks cliff for making me see

Posted by Mikes Sumondong | July 3, 2009 11:20 PM

Wow-Josh we need to get you out more! Like plan a trip to Asheville, NC!

Really-WOW!

Posted by @justinthesouth (Justin Brackett) | July 3, 2009 11:27 PM

Top 7 Reasons that was good:

1. It was Key
2. It was Great
3. It conforms with the fads (so key)
4. It outfads the fads
5-9. It has a certain (insert French word here)
12. Strong Math which single handedly (aka without the use of both hands) brings us even with other countries in that subject.
16. Remember that game "Gotcha?" I think Jim McMahon did the adverts for that.

Posted by sd smith | July 3, 2009 11:37 PM

Nice. Very sequential.

Posted by Ched | July 3, 2009 11:52 PM

Now that's funny.

Posted by Ed Stetzer | July 4, 2009 12:13 AM

As someone who loves lists, and a good laugh, I loved this post! #7 is priceless!

Posted by Wayne Stocks | July 4, 2009 1:32 AM

#9. Leverage the profundity and popularity of your list into a lucrative book deal.

Posted by Randy | July 4, 2009 9:49 AM

I think this is a wonderful approach to planninf one's day. i break rule 7 like everyday, and i dont think i'l be doing thay anymore.. cheers joshua

Posted by somto okeke | July 6, 2009 4:25 AM

I think this is a wonderful approach to planninf one's day. i break rule 7 like everyday, and i dont think i'l be doing that anymore.. cheers joshua

Posted by somto okeke | July 6, 2009 4:26 AM

I think this is a wonderful approach to planninf one's day. i break rule 7 like everyday, and i dont think i'l be doing that anymore.. cheers joshua

Posted by somto okeke | July 6, 2009 4:42 AM

You forgot number 9: Always keep a list of your lists.

Posted by Julia | July 7, 2009 7:56 AM

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