How To: Plan Your Week

#howto #plans #planning #planner #organization #erincondren #productivity #focus #goals #weeklygoals #achieve #google #outlook

All my friends and family can attest to the fact that I am somewhat type A about my schedule. Something inside me just can not live without having a plan.

Imagine turning in a project late?

Many friends joke that I should plan their lives for them. And I totally would. Honest to God.

Now, I realize many people do not get excited about "agreeing" to plans with friends in advance, or penciling things in. Yet, they struggle to set goals and make time for others. Everyone is different yes but, most of peoples stress can be solved with the proper tools.

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Why is being organized so important?

You get sh*t done.

Being organized leads to higher productivity, in whatever way you spin it.

You save time. You are less stressed. You have a better work/life balance. More flexible/creative time to give. More focus in that present moment.

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My tools

Tech options

OUTLOOK (Microsoft outlook): An amazing tool that can handle email, calendar, team/work collaborations, and more.

Now the best thing about outlook is the calendar features--> I get reminders on my phone via the app about meetings and I can RSVP for them! Uhhh, that is amazing and easy.

Google products: Gmail is essentially the same as Outlook, MINUS the reminders (that I am aware of). Google offers Google Keep which is available as an app too where I can my passwords/logins/grocery lists. Google also offers a calendar which may be a good option!

Hands-on options

Erin Condren: The most amazing company to get all your planning needs from. They have everything from planners, portfolios, stationary, accessories, and much more. I order a custom planner every year and a half.

Now, I know it may seem hasty but, I use an hourly planner to organize my school, work, and meetings with clients. I basically work 30+ hours a week on-top of school and also keep up with my friends. So the need to file my life by the hour is the only way to make sure I can keep up and give people accurate times. Now they offer monthly goal styles all the way down to my type A style.

I do not go anywhere without this bad boy. And honesty, I do not see a day when I won't.

What to Do (Planner Style)

Main idea: Set up your week in order to create stability.

Obvious work

Write down (in your planner or whatever you use) this week's most important meetings/appointments/events. Make sure to note the time of them.

Got your kids soccer game on Saturday @10am? Might wanna write down to bring snacks too.

Now, I am sure this is obvious. But, it is just like saying you are going to workout vs. actually working out.

Oversights

Setting up times before the meeting or place you need to be, to get there!!! So many times I have forgotten because I was so frantic. I would forget how far my walk or drive is to the next place, which led to me being late.

"Better three hours too soon than a minute too late. "

--> A bit dramatic but still true.

Tips

I write down set-in-stone plans in a specific color every week to create an easier read.

I use a fun color and a * symbol for plans that may change (going to workout lol I change my mind about that a lot).

I block out times for relaxing, chores, cooking. (this may be excessive-- so maybe just stick with the relaxing)

Essentially why I am so productive and able to juggle 3 jobs and college is due to the fact that I plan out my week every Sunday (roughly) and I commit to it.

There may be no point to this post about me and my life of organizing & planning. Orrrr it may spark some sort of movement for someone reading it to get it together!

Whichever,

I hope you enjoyed. I have missed talking about fashion & beauty fun and can not wait to return to it!

Talk soon,

Cassandra

PS: I am having waaaaay too much fun with the gifs today. No apologies.