The lazy days of summer are coming to a close, and with the end of loosely planned days also comes loose-leaf paper--and stress. It's back to the norm of frantically rushing from class to class, class to work, work to class, practice, rehearsal or any other obligation we voluntarily or involuntarily signed up for.
As a disorganized person by nature, relying on post-it notes, scraps of notebook paper, napkins and even that leftover receipt have all aided in my attempt at a scheduling system--at least a functional one. If you are anything like me, you begrudgingly admit that this probably is not the best method of scheduling. This year I have made the effort to organize myself, physically and mentally, with the help of a Planner (yes, Planner with a capital P.)
Here are five tips to help you make the conversion from post-it notes to the Planner lifestyle.
1. Get the Planner.
As a former critic of planners, I now see that I was missing out on something amazing. With the many types and styles of planners and personal calendars out there, you are bound to find one that fits your preferences and needs. Not only are there a variety of formats and sizes, but planners come in enough colors and patterns to fit any calendar and organizational style. Remember: A higher price does not mean "better." Many planners and calendar apps for your smart phone or tablet are inexpensive, appealing and user-friendly. From pocket-sized to digitized calendar apps, picking the right planner for your lifestyle is similar to a trip to Olivanders--let the Planner choose you.
2. Use the Planner.
This is a crucial step. Your printed friend will do no good sitting in the bottom of your bag or making friends with the empty fast food wrappers on the floorboards of your car. If you are having trouble remembering to write things down as they happen, take time to sit and fill in what you can at the end of the day after you have emptied your pockets of the napkin notes and before you wash away that paper deadline hastily scribbled on your wrist. As you have more dates in your planner, you will begin to rely on it more and it will become your partner in crime and less like an afterthought.
3. Look ahead.
Most planners and personal calendars are organized in a way that allow you to see what is written down for the next day or the rest of the week. Before bed, make a new habit to pull what you need for the following day. This will also allow you to make sure you leave enough time to be prepared once you have arrived. As basic as it sounds, this is a great way to put you in the right frame of mind so you can start your day on a more relaxed note, ready and able to accomplish tasks efficiently--and with the check marks to show for it.
4. Use it or lose it.
Once you start using your planner or calendar more, it will be less likely to wander off with your keys, wallet and sense of security. Until then, make sure you keep your friend somewhere where it won't get lost. From personal experience, the less I use my Planner, the more likely it is to find someone who will treat it better or even decide it liked to live with the dust bunnies under my couch more than in my school bag.
5. Be Regular.
This may be a repeat on No. 2, but it really is the most important aspect of utilizing a Planner or calendar to get organized. Make it a habit now. Your future self will be sure to thank you.
How do you stay organized and on top of your busy schedule? What apps do you like? Spread your Planner wisdom!
