What type of planner is 'best'? There is no 'right' answer to that! We all work and think differently.
Over the years I've used various planners and lists. I've settled on what is best and easiest for me. I use a small, lined notebook to keep a running list of things to do. I've divided into sections that work for me.
On the inside front cover I paste a printed page of important phone numbers and addresses.
(You can also keep these on your cell phone -- but I like to have the written copy too.)
The front page for me is a long-term to do list or 'running-to-do' list that I keep in the back of my mind and tackle when I have the time. It's a list of items that aren't urgent -- but are important and perhaps needful. During the month I'll check the list and add it to my daily list when I have the time to do it. Sometimes the items passes in importance and I am able to just cross it off.
The second page (and section) is my largest. Each day I write a new list of things to be done that day. I put in calendared items along with the needful things of the day. This is my favorite section and one that I couldn't live without.
Third section I have as a grocery and supply list (I have a small post-it to mark the page). (I keep a list on the fridge to easily note items as needed and transfer it to my grocery list when I am going to go shopping.) I have a page for food storage items and preparedness items. This really helps me to track needed items and know what to purchase if there is a good sale.
The last page of my notebook (hidden at the back) are gift ideas and needed items for my children,myself and others. When they mention something that they need or desire - I will note it in my notebook so as not to forget. Sometimes the months pass and the wanted items are no longer wanted - so I cross them off.
Whatever type of planner you use -- is what works for you. But --- use something!!! :)
Write things down so that you don't have to stress about remembering things!
Write things down so that you can cross them off and feel a sense of accomplishment!
Write things down so that you can keep track of needed items and calendared events!
Many of you use new handheld computer devices. These work great for some of you. I've tried various things but, for some reason, have always come back to the notebook method. It fits easily into my purse, is inexpensive, easily maintained, and easily updated and renewed.
With the notebook idea I am not bound to any certain method or program and I'm able to find flexibility and time for spiritual promptings during the day. My prayer is that I won't overschedule -- but allow time to help others and to accomplish the most needful tasks.
preparations...
10 hours ago
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5 comments:
I enjoyed this post. Your planning method is great! I have lists/notebooks/cards that serve simliar functions, but I like having them spread out. I don't like to see my long term to-do list too often. I wrote it on a card and filed it in the top drawer of my bathroom vanity. I know where it is if I find a little time. I keep a gift list, but it too is in that top drawer. I used to write down a nice-to-have list, but I found that the more I thought about what it would be nice to have, the more I wanted, and the less I appreciated what I did have. So I tossed the entire list. Your method seems very balanced and thoughtful. Just like you. :)
I also do something similar, but in a big notebook. I'd love to use that idea of making it smaller and more portable. Would you consider posting pictures of it?
I would love to see pictures of your work! My problem is that I basically never get to the planning phase of life. I am always just running trying to catch up. Maybe if I were a better list maker I wouldn't always been in disarray. Thanks for the great ideas!
LOL, I meant could I see a picture of your planner so I can get a better idea of how you have it set up.
Sorry about the confusion! I was REALLY tired!
You make an excellent point--different things work for different people. I think that whatever we use, it has to be simple enough to use and extensive enough to allow for planning ahead.
I learned about using a planner as a teenager from watching both my parents start using Franklin planners. At first I thought it would only be a phase, but they used them a lot, and I started thinking that it could probably help me remember all the stuff I had to do. (Things were starting to get a little out of control). I asked my parents if I could have one and they asked if I would use it and I told them I would, so my dad actually paid for me to go to one of the Franklin training sessions and I got my planner and I loved it to death! I was a junior in high school and I was carrying that planner around everywhere! I used it up until my second year at BYU when I decided that a PDA might be less bulky to carry around, so I switched to a Palm and that's what I've been using ever since.
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