What if we reimagined our role in life as that of a repair person? Instead of viewing our to-do lists as endless burdens, we could see them as a series of “broken” things that need attention. Adopting this mindset can help us approach tasks with purpose, focus, and a sense of accomplishment.

From fixing tangible problems to addressing emotional, relational, or organizational issues, seeing yourself as a repair person shifts the way you tackle challenges and view progress.

Why the Repair Mindset Works

  1. It Brings Clarity
    Repairing something implies a clear problem to be solved. Viewing your to-do list this way can help you focus on identifying and addressing specific issues instead of feeling overwhelmed by vague or undefined tasks.
  2. It Encourages Action
    Repairing isn’t about endless planning—it’s about rolling up your sleeves and doing the work. The repair mindset promotes action over procrastination.
  3. It Provides a Sense of Purpose
    Every repair brings something back to functionality or beauty. Whether it’s fixing a broken process, resolving a misunderstanding, or organizing your workspace, there’s satisfaction in restoring order.
  4. It Helps You See Progress
    When you fix something, the results are often tangible—a leaky faucet stops dripping, a cluttered room becomes tidy, or a strained relationship feels lighter. This visibility reinforces a sense of achievement.

Reframing Your To-Do List as Repairs

1. Identify the “Broken” Things

Look at your to-do list and ask: What’s broken here? It might not always be literal. Some examples:

  • Broken Objects: A faucet that needs fixing, a chair to assemble.
  • Broken Systems: A messy inbox, an inefficient workflow.
  • Broken Connections: A neglected friendship, a misunderstanding with a colleague.

Naming what’s broken helps you understand why it’s on your list and motivates you to tackle it.

2. Break Down the Repair Process

Repairs usually involve a step-by-step approach. Apply the same logic to your tasks:

  • Diagnose the Problem: What’s wrong, and why does it matter?
  • Gather Tools and Resources: What do you need to fix it? (Time, materials, knowledge?)
  • Take Action: Start the repair process, one manageable step at a time.

3. Prioritize by Urgency

Just like a repair technician addresses the most urgent issues first, you can prioritize your list:

  • What’s leaking energy, money, or time?
  • What will get worse if left unattended?

Examples of Life Repairs

Physical Repairs:

  • Fixing a squeaky door or replacing a burnt-out lightbulb improves your environment.
  • Organizing your workspace “repairs” inefficiency.

Emotional Repairs:

  • Journaling or seeking therapy can help you process emotions and “fix” internal conflicts.
  • Practicing self-care is a repair for burnout.

Relational Repairs:

  • Apologizing to a friend or spending quality time with a loved one can repair strained relationships.
  • Addressing workplace disagreements restores harmony.

Organizational Repairs:

  • Updating a budget repairs financial planning.
  • Decluttering your home repairs a chaotic space.

How to Adopt the Repair Mindset

1. View Problems as Opportunities

Instead of dreading tasks, see them as chances to restore, improve, or create something better.

2. Embrace Imperfection

Not every repair will be flawless, but progress matters more than perfection. A partially fixed system is still better than a broken one.

3. Celebrate the Fixes

Take pride in your repairs, big or small. Every crossed-off item on your to-do list represents something you’ve restored or improved.

4. Stay Curious and Resourceful

Like any good repair person, be willing to learn and experiment. Not sure how to tackle a task? Research, ask for help, or try a new approach.

Conclusion

Thinking of yourself as a repair person transforms how you approach tasks and challenges. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list, you’ll see it as an opportunity to fix what’s broken and restore balance in your life.

Life is full of things that need our care and attention. By adopting the repair mindset, you not only tackle problems but also create spaces, systems, and relationships that work better—for you and those around you. So, grab your metaphorical toolbox and start repairing. There’s something deeply satisfying in fixing what’s broken and making life just a little better, one task at a time.