- They are bored. Example: Stuff White People Like. This list is wonderful; very funny; totally pointless.
- They are forgetful. Example: Grocery lists. "Eggs, milk, bread, and hmmm... what else? I'll check my grocery list and find out! Oh, that's right- paper towels! So glad I didn't forget" (List-Writing Grocery Shopper).
- They are ambitious, or want to be. Example: The Bucket List. For those who want to travel the world and skydive before they "kick the bucket."
- They seek fulfillment. Example: Personal lists that are say, under your bed in a red binder. (Who would do that...pshhh) This list includes showing kindness, giving hugs, and the like.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Lists
Lists: we make them, we break them, we talk about them in AIS. Today Mr. Bolos asked why we all list the things we do: pack a suitcase, travel the world, learn a new language. Let's answer why with some possible explanations (In no particular order)...
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Glenna,
ReplyDeleteI found that list of "Stuff White People Like" very amusing! Good find. To say the least, I am obsessed with lists. I write down, well, everything. Basically in fear that I would forget. (Just as your #2 says!) In addition, I think its important to have some set of goals in your life. Whether this be in list form or not, it is a stepping stone that is a necessity of every successful person.
This is a really interesting post, Glenna! I would say that I'm a combination of the last three reasons. I most identify with the third reason though. In my mind, I associate lists with an organized, well-prepared person who gets things done, so when I am highly motivated (which doesn't happen often) I find myself making lists.
ReplyDeleteI also found the "Stuff White People Like" to be very funny. :)
ReplyDeleteI, like Sarah, write down absolutely everything, and I make lists for all four of the reasons you offered. I have one more reason, though. A little less than two years ago I went to an annual physical, and my doctor asked me how much sleep I get on a typical night. I was able to estimate for her, but not able to give a perfect answer. Out of curiosity I began recording the amount of sleep I got each night to the nearest quarter hour. At first I was only going to do this for a month, but then, because I thought it was an interesting experiment, continued. I haven't missed one night since, and can look back to averages for about 20 months now, as well as year averages. In this case my list doesn't really benefit me, but it satisfies my curiosity.
Glenna, A nice meta-post and an interesting idea here. Your list is good, but have you come to any conclusions as to why we make lists and find them so appealing? is this an Americna phenonmenon?
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