Don't Be Busy, Be Productive | Routine
Once "back to school" starts I always find myself in a downward spiral of trying to keep up with everything until holidays. Then it starts all over again after the holidays. Whether you have kids or not I feel this is still just a hectic time. For me it's planning a new routine, trying to execute that routine, and finding the work-to-home balance. So let's jump into the planning because that's one hell of a job in its self.
I try to be realistic for my day-to-day schedule but somehow always still inserts way too much into each of my days. I've tried the whole digital planner and tried to literally use any form that google had to offer to keep everything in one place but to also go paperless. If it works for you, I applaud you, but after a year+ I find myself overwhelmed, frustrated, and still not accomplishing what I know I can in each day.
I went back to paper. There is just something about writing everything down. I went with a simple Target Agenda and for the most part, I've been enjoying it. I found this one to suit me best as it not only plans, but I'm able to fill in my goals. Not just yearly, but monthly, which is more suited for me. I'm able to plan out my month accordingly but then really map out each week as well. I feel that when I put out exactly what I want to be done, in what order, and the easiest way, it gets done. If you couldn't tell, I'm definitely a "list person." So on top of my planner, I also do a notebook for my day-to-day listed schedule. While my planner tends to stick to the average workday. My notebook is my full schedule and it reminds me of what is going on in not just my work life but my personal life too. It's easier to jot down a simple "spend more time with the kiddos today" than to put that in my jammed planner that might get overlooked when I need that reminder the most.
I'm also someone that juggles many work-related things which can be confusing in one planner. I try to tell myself I am one person. I need to schedule it all out to where I'm doing each day as one person. The notebook is handy for this so I can keep up with side things like planning content out Later (I'll touch on that in a future post) or "hey if you have extra time today edit that podcast episode that's coming up."
If you want to take it farther, like I needed to, I keep a small "week at a glance" on my desk. This particular one from By Samantha March is what I need as a content creator but she does (as well as other brands) have blank ones for any type of work. This little notepad is perfect to look at when I'm sitting down to create. It's not overwhelming. It's actually very straight forward "this is what you need to do" and I find it helps with my stir-crazy head. I sit down and accomplish those tasks then move back to my notebook or planner.
I know this way may be a lot for the average person and that's why I'm here to break down different strategies or help others that have a brain that works more like mine. So find what works and stick with it. Remember to not be hard on yourself. You're allowed to have bad days, hell even days when you just don't give a shit. Most importantly, don't overthink it. That's the takeaway today.
Take some extra time today (or this week/weekend) to map out next week. Include not only work but personal life to your agenda and don't forget that "me time" either. Personally, I like to have quiet time. Maybe first thing in the morning with my espresso. I relax, clear my head, and jot down what I need/want to accomplish next week. Then I strategize the layout of those things... What day am I going to be able to film this certain look? Will I be able to fit in a Bubbly order that day? When are my meetings for the week?
Once it is all written out in front of you it's easy to place each task on a day and mark off as you go.
If you feel your schedule is too hectic to take the extra time to plan, I get it I've been there. In those times, it can be easier to instead of being more detailed about the planning to just list your days (ex. Monday-Friday) and limit, let's say 5, things to get done each of those days. During your week as tasks come up or ideas jot them down under the days until each day is full. This ideally isn't for me. I have to be more detailed but sometimes you have to do what you need to.
I hope you enjoy this new routine series. I have many tips and ideas that I have learned or been shown over the past couple of years. My routine is not perfect in any way and I still strive for a better one, but each day is a new one. I'm grateful for where my routine is at now versus a year of growth and hard work.
xx - Ally
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