They help me stay organized.
I am constantly writing ideas down on sticky notes and during meetings of random thoughts I need to remember for later.
The brighter the note, the bigger the list.
Sometimes I get it all done, sometimes I don’t, but what it does help me with is clear my mind to focus on the important tasks and not worry, yes worry, about all the other ideas rummaging around in my head.
Lists give ideas a place, if they are good enough, they will graduate to something better.