One word that I detest more than anything in this world is the word “productive.” There was a time in my life that I would measure the quality of my day based on how productive I was. That productivity was tied directly to my to-do list. Depending on how far I had gotten through the list, determined how I felt about that day, and eventually how I felt about myself.
At some point along the way, I felt like a slave to my to-do list. It was very rare that I would get through the entire list. But if I did, I was like a lost pup in the woods, wondering which path to take to find my way back home. “I guess with this unexpected spare time, I’ll clean that closet I have been wanting to clean.” I would find a way to use my free time to be productive, rather than taking a beat and resting in the moment or doing something for myself.
Eventually, I got tired and burnt out of this game and was searching for a better way of managing my time and responsibilities. I will say I have gotten much better with a new system and a practice that even allows for moments of rest! The first step was taking back my time. The word “bullet journal” had floated into my world a couple of times. Out of curiosity, I watched a video by the creator of the concept, and it felt like it may be the answer I was looking for. I have adapted this concept to my own lifestyle and it has been a game-changer. The biggest change for me is that I write the list in an actual notebook and leave it on my desk. I no longer have a digital version that I bring with me everywhere.
Every Sunday, I wake up, and at the top of the page, I write the date. Then I write:
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Next, I go to my weekly Google calendar where I record meetings, appointments, and engagements. I will fill out the items next to the appropriate day for the week.
In the section below, I have three columns. I write my business name(s), there are two, and then “personal.” I write the things that must get done this week under each category. At this point, I will carry over anything from the previous week that didn’t get crossed off. Then I prioritize each list.
At the start of each weekday, after I have had completed my morning routine, I sit down at the desk and write my daily to-do list. I cross-reference the weekly list and the columns to make sure I have daily tasks and top priority items written down. Things will come up during the week: client demands, phone calls, new meetings, etc. They are added to the appropriate day or column as they happen.
By removing the digital to-do list, and adding a system that captured obligations and time-sensitive commitments, this system allowed me to be more in control of my time and not be at the mercy of my to-do list. Yes, perhaps my days aren’t as “productive” as they once were. However, I am less stressed, I am not giving all my precious energy all the time, and I am much happier.
Are you interested in implementing a similar system for yourself? First, buy yourself a journal that inspires you. Here are some suggestions**, then watch the video and start implementing immediately.
**Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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