[alexjrice]

Normally areas of focus would be managed by using folders.

If you don't actually want to be able to tick items off the list, then they're probably not actions. You could add them in as a note (command + ')

If they are actions and you want to re-use them (eg. packing list for holiday) then I use a folder called 'reusable checklists', it contains projects that have the repeat property set to 'start again 1m after completion'. Once you're done with the list simply mark it as done and then put it on hold and you get a 'fresh' copy. When you next come to use it take it off hold again.