My tool of choice to help rectify this is a loose-leaf planner. I bought it a few years ago and have been tweaking the process since, with varying degrees of success. I think I'm pretty close and am happy with my setup for 2021.
I know there are countless apps and online tools for scheduling and accountability, but I really am a pen and paper person. I like the feel of it, and research shows that writing things down increases the brain's engagement and boosts memory.
Having said that, you will not see my planner on Pinterest. I'm not opposed to fun tape and stickers, but there comes a point where those embellishments just mean more time and more decisions. I have my fine-tipped markers for color-coding, and for now, that will have to do.
We're about two weeks into the new year, and my success rate for daily tracking is pretty good. But I'm always looking for new tricks, so if you have any tips for planner success, leave me a comment!
Oh, and if you're inspired to shop for a planner, New York Magazine has this list of the best choices for 2021.
I'm am totally a pen and paper person as well. I have a paper diary (small size so it can fit in my handbag). Each day I write a list of everything that has to happen - the appointments from my diary and the list of "things" I need to do. I also have another diary where each night I write down what I did that was writing related, because I hate writing "nothing" so it forces me to do *something* writing related.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a good system that works well for you! I'm keeping better track of writing time, which helps with accountability!
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