brain power

brain power
brain Power

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Make A Plan to Optimize Your Day

 PLAN YOUR DAY IN ADVANCE

I don't do this as much as I would like, but when I do I am always rewarded with a feeling of accomplishment.  I post here today to remind myself to be more proactive about planning for the upcoming day.  And I challenge you to be more proactive about it as well.

I like to make a list of things I need to do the following day, I set up a time for each event and stick to it like an appointment.  This eliminates down time and motivates me to accomplish tasks and goals I set for myself.  Making a listed plan helps me visualize what I need to do as well as visualize actually accomplishing it.
Making the list the night before further helps because it gives my mind a chance to 'marinate' in the thoughts of accomplishment.

If I miss a scheduled appointment due to unforeseen incidences, I don't get mad or dwell on it.  I simply keep it on the schedule and finish it after, or carry it on to the next day.  Here is an example of my list on a weekend or day off;

5:30 - 6:00 AM  Wake and eat breakfast

6 - 7:00  AM Tai Chi and stretching (or walking outside)

7-10AM Online work and blogging

10AM-12PM In town errands (groceries, post office and bank)

12-1 PM Lunch

1-3PM Visiting family

3-6PM Work on yard (rake driveway, take out trash, clean outdoor furniture)

6-7PM Dinner

7-9PM Date night with girlfriend (movie and snacks on the couch)

9-9:30PM Bedtime rituals

Bedtime

This is very effective, and as you can see a lot can be accomplished in one day. 

Planning for your day to come is a great way to practice good time management.  Life Balance can also help you allocate time to aspects of your life that may be lacking to this point.