The Dream Planner-How to Utilize and Organize Your Daily Planner

If I’m being truthful the perfect planner would be a personal assistant to enter and keep track of all my appointments; but for now it's up to me to keep track of my busy home and work life. No matter what system you use these tips and tricks will help you make the most of your time.

Find the right size-

This is very much a matter of personal preference, but you should be able to carry your planner around in your bag or briefcase. I also like to make sure it's big enough to fit appointment, to-do list and all the other random notes I find myself jotting down.

 The right view-

Many planners have monthly, weekly and or daily views. I recommend using a planner that has at least two of these views. I use a monthly, weekly planner that includes a daily to-do space. The monthly view allows me to record long-term projects on the monthly pages and all my daily appointment in the weekly view. This allows me to keep tabs on everything in one place. 

Color-coding-

It may be my type “A” personality but I find color-coding my to-do list, appointments and other items provides visual clues that helps me stay efficient when using my planner. I recommend using broad topics such as work, personal, family, financial etc. I then choose a color for each topic and any appointment or item that falls under that topic get's highlighted in that color. I use a packet of highlighters or Washi Tape (great for using in the monthly view to designate long term projects) or the highlight function on my Google Calendar.

Have a bookmark-

By keeping a paper clip or other marker on the day page of your planner let's you find your page quickly and efficiently.

To-do list-

Make a to do list of everything you need to accomplish for the day and keep it in your planner. I actually use my daily notes section for this. I only use this section for must do tasks. I consider it my priority project list.

Happy Organizing!

Erin