Time is running out if you haven't started shopping for holiday gifts. And this is when the stress comes in. We've asked Paula Rizzo, founder of ListProducer.com, to weigh in on how to alleviate some of the stress during the holiday season - by making lists!

1. What made you start ListProducer.com?

I've always been a list maker but it wasn't until I became a television producer that I found them especially useful. I noticed that making lists of things I needed to accomplish at work really helped me to focus and be more productive.

I also make lists at home. When my husband and I were looking for a new apartment, we were getting overwhelmed and couldn't recall key things about each place. So I made a checklist of all of the things we should pay attention to like how many closets were in each room and what floor the apartment was located on, etc. That way when we went into the apartment we would really be focused and be able to make a better decision.

A friend of mine asked for my list when she was looking for a place a few months later. The real estate agent she was with saw the list and thought it was a great idea. He even asked to photocopy it so he could give it to his clients! She came back to me and said I think you're on to something here with your lists. Other people might not take the time to make them but they are so helpful. And then ListProducer.com was born where I offer productivity tips and curate expert checklists for just about anything!

2. Have smartphones and apps changed the way people make lists? Any apps you recommend?

Absolutely - now people are able to keep their lists all in one central location and can carry them at all times. It's very convenient and will help you be more efficient. I like Evernote and Wunderlist - both of those allow you to log on from your computer or your phone to view and add to your lists.

3. The holiday season is typically very stressful - how can people use lists to reduce stress?

I start my holiday shopping in August - I know it sounds crazy but the reason I do it is so that I'm not stressed when the holidays roll around. I make lists of everyone I need to buy gifts for and ideas for each person. I listen to people throughout the year- and if they mention something they like or need…I will write it on my list.
Making a list of the things you need to accomplish is like setting a goal. Once it's written down then it becomes concrete and you can work on making it happen. Same goes for the holidays - between gift giving and entertaining - lists can help to make you more efficient without pulling your hair out.

4. Do you make lists using pen and paper, on the computer or on your cell phone? Which is the best option?

This is such an individual thing - you have to do what works best for you. I always tell people to try as many different list making techniques as you need to until one sticks. For me - I write most of my lists using a pencil and paper. There is something about having a physical list that really resonates with me. I also email myself lists and use several apps here and there but for some reason I always revert back to my pencil and paper.

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