The to-do list actually can save you time if you use it to ensure you don't forget to do things. Not everything that's important to do is in my top 3-4 things. By putting things in my to-do list, I can relax, knowing I don't need to worry about forgetting them and can mentally set them aside when I know they're in my list for a future date. I’ve written up my simple to-do-list “rules of the road” here: https://themakingofamillionaire.com/my-stupid-simple-to-do-list-method-effective-way-to-peace-of-mind-a1c00dbc7a4a.