I use the lights and other electrical items rather sparingly until I've started the engine and got the battery charging, unless its an aircraft I fly regularly and know the battery condition. I've had too many hired aircraft fail to start after only a short time checking electrical items because of poor battery condition or state.
In an ideal world the battery would not be an influence.
To add to the debate (or confusion) my mnemonics after t/o clearance: TPXLC
Transponder
Pitot
X-wind (within limits)
Landing light on
Clock (write down time and estimate for first waypoint)
After positive rate of climb: BUF
Brakes
Undercarriage
Flaps
Then PTL
Power
Ts and Ps
Landing Light Off
Approaching 1000': FARI
Fuel (pump off)
Altimeters cross-check
Radios (ident Navaids)
Ice check
Having got used to these, I daren't use any others in case I get really mixed up, so I still recite the same list even when flying simple PFA types where more than half the items don't apply !