I’ve been using paper planners for years in addition to tools on my computer and phone. I began my paper planner love with a Daytimer desktop size that was given to me at work back in the early 90’s. I still have it! It has small rings compared to some of my Franklin Covey classics. I still go back to these from time to time. I also have FC compact size planners and a Filofax personal size that I use for my wallet.
My current planner is actually a discbound amalgamation of Arc, Levenger, and my own printed pages housed in a vintage Levenger leather olive green cover. The cover is no longer available, however, I found similar ones made by Levenger. I think they are probably a bit more durable than the vintage one I have.
As the title of this blog post states, I used Getting Things Done by David Allen for guidance in the setup and use of my current planner. It took awhile, but I’m pleased. I purchased my copy of this book on Amazon. Here is a link for your convenience, and mine as it’s also an affiliate link.
I have learned many different Time Management systems over the years. I like this approach best because it’s more about managing my tasks, things I need and want to do, rather than managing my time. This happens anyway. I find that I am more productive using this system. I get more tasks accomplished with the way I have set up my planner following what David Allen recommends in his book, than I have with any other planner setup I’ve used in the past. Here is a walk-through video of my planner. As a coach, and previously a therapist, I have taught many clients about task/time management. I find visual aides really help so I plan to create more videos in the future on the planners and how I work with them. Until then, enjoy this overview…