I have had a pretty substantial list to complete before this baby comes in 2 1/2 weeks. House projects and home organization galore. Sewing projects. Maintaining the home. Cooking, baking, freezing meals. Taking the kids places...swimming and bowling and trips. And I have actually managed to accomplish most of my pre-baby goals...and not frantically but steadily and easily. I give thanks for the humble note card.
Every morning I pick about three to five goals I have for that day. I grab a simple 3x5 lined note card and jot them down. I carry that note card around with me and it keeps me focused on "doing the next thing". It might say:
1. Clean a potty and a sink.
2. Bake some muffins.
3. Get laundry put away.
4. Organize a drawer or cupboard.
5. Make two phone calls for needed appointments.
When I steadily keep small, specific, and manageable goals in front of me, it's amazing all that gets done. I am focused and not distracted. If I do get distracted by the computer or something that I see that needs doing, I just come back to the note card and start on the next thing.
I love my note cards! It's not a complicated day timer or bulky notebook. I just keep a stack of them on my desk so I can grab them easily. I also use them to jot down a few chores for each child. And for grocery lists or sewing lists. They are cheap and simple, and they work!
9 comments:
Now that is a planner I think I can handle! I have tried and tried to figure out a system that works for me, but most methods are too overwhelming and take too much time to keep up-to-date, let alone get set up. This just might work for me. Thanks for the great idea! I will be giving this a try tomorrow!
I have used the notecard system in the past and really liked it. Don't know why I stopped. I am glad to hear this is how you get so much done b/c I have been wondering how you seem to knock out all these projects all the time!
I am a big fan of racing the timer, set for 15 minutes (thank you, flylady!). I am always amazed at how much can really be done in 15 minutes!!
And WOW, 2 1/2 weeks!! I can't believe it!! Our babies are almost here!!
hummm...sounds like you may be nesting! :) so exciting! 2 1/2 weeks!...yay! Can't wait to hear how everything goes and see cutie pics! :)
what a great idea, i think i'll have to give it a whirl!!!!
shannon
This reminds me of the very post I included in _Not So Fast_ about picturing the pretty plate holding only 3 portions, because that's about all we can get done in a day.
I love note cards, too. I have my master list sitting next to me...I think I'll jot down three on a card right now and, as you say, do the next thing.
I use a system very similar to this and it works well for me too. Sometimes simple is better.
PS. Good luck as you near your due date.
I am trying this today. Pregnancy has knocked me all out of wack. I need something simple where I can see success! Thanks Aimee!!
I am going to do this today! Sounds like a great plan!
Smart idea!!
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