Over the years as my productivity method has evolved the system I have used has changed.  I have bounced between trying to use various digital systems, to using various planner and notebook systems.  In the course of all of this I have found a use for digital tools as well as paper and pens as parts of my system.

My Current System

    * Google Calendar * Disc bound planner * Disc bound notebook * Pocket notebook / Index Cards

Google Calendar

I use Google Calendar to capture any appointments that are a week or more out.  I only look at the calendar at the month level.  I also set repeating events here, and basically forget about them until I need to add them to my weekly planner.

Disc Bound Planner

My planner is a disc bound planner.  I use Staples’ disc bound system with pages from the DIY Planner system.  I find this system extremely flexible.  My planner has the following sections:

  • Middle Way Method Outline
  • Mission and Vision Statement
  • Weekly Sheets
  • Journal Pages
  • Health Journal
  • Blank Pages

I throw away the weekly pages as each week is finished and I transfer the journal pages to my notebook as I finish them.

Disc Bound Notebook

I use my notebook for long-term notes.  I keep notes about blogging ideas, projects, books I want to read in this notebook.  This is my memory.  It captures thoughts and plans.  This way I forget fewer ideas.

Index Cards / Pocket Notebook

Everyday I look at my planner and write tasks and appointments on a page.  I also write notes in it.  I am using a notebook I found for a couple of dollars.  I have used index cards for this as well.  I like the index cards for their more free form structure, but they get loose fairly often which does not help.

My Planning Process

My planning process is a series of processes:

  1. Creating and maintaining mission and vision statements
  2. Setting and achieving goals
  3. Keeping a journal
  4. Capturing information
  5. Weekly Review
  6. Daily Review
  7. Creating a Custom System

I use the following system weekly and daily to work each of these processes:

Weekly:

    1. Create / Edit / Review Mission and Vision Statements 1. Review Last Week and Journal using the following prompts: * What goals did I achieve? * What challenges did I face? 1. Decide which roles to focus on 1. Identify physical, mental, spiritual, and social goals for self-improvement 1. Process notes, and information into the system 1. Review / Edit / Create projects (Long term, multiphase goals) Daily: 1. Review Calendar 1. Prioritize daily tasks This system works for me.  It has been the most stable of my systems, lasting through life changes.  It uses some of the advantages of a digital system, and the simplicity of paper based planning.  It also has let me divide my system into distinct levels of focus.  This makes it possible to focus. I use a couple of rules when working, which I have learned over time: * Each Day Pick 3 large tasks and 2 small tasks to carry out. * Use a timer to create distinct work / relax time.  I use a 25 minute work followed by 5 minute break. I still feel that the most important part of my system is the mission and vision statements.  These provide the basis for improvement.  They tell me who I am now, and who I want to become.  If I want I change course at any time so knowing where I am going is helpful.  It provides direction. I have tried various sizes of moleskin type notebooks.  These can make great tools, I have just come to like the disc bound notebooks better.