We all have things we need to do from day to day. Some of these might be to go to an important appointment such as the dentist or for a car service, - simply for food shopping or to make a plan to do an activity that helps in other ways - such as seeing a friend. So how do you remind yourself that you have these tasks to do? And does this way of reminding yourself work all the time?
If you haven't done so already, a really helpful approach is to plan what it is you need or want to do. Start by writing it down and think through all the things that you need to do to achieve it, as well as anything that might get in the way and stop you carrying it out. A crucial step that people sometimes miss is reviewing how your plan has gone. It's crucial because it helps us spot whether or not our plans/tasks are
realistic and achievable. Many people think
of what it is they need to do, and then jump straight to it, without learning what went well and what didn't.
Our free Planner and Review worksheets act as helpful resources to make successful plans, carry them out, and then review them. Download your free worksheets just now to try them out!
Here's how others have used them:
Planner sheet questions (to help you get your plan/task off to a great start!)
What am I going to do? - Improve on my sleeping, and aim to get a few hours more each night.
When am I going to do it? - I'm going to start Sunday night, and be in bed for 10.15pm.
What problems might arise? - I might get distracted by a call from mum and have to go round to hers and help. Or the children might need me to help with
something.
How might I overcome the problems? - Mum walking can be a problem anytime, however I could ask my brother to be on hand instead that evening should anything come up. And I can make sure that i speak to the children during the day/early evening, to help with anything that they may need help with.
Review worksheet questions (to help you reflect, and review how the plan/task has or hasn't gone)
What did you plan to do? -
Improve on my sleeping, by going to bed 1 hour earlier each night.
Did you try to do it? if yes, what went well? - Yes, I did and I used some of the hints and tips I had read in an article (see hints and tips section below). I also let my family know that I was doing this, and they all really helped me by reminding me each day when I got home from work.
If no, what didn't go so well?
What have you learned about from what happened? - That the Planner sheet really helps me be specific, i.e times and any help I might need. I also think talking to my family helped too, as they were encouraging.
How are you going to apply what you have learned? - By using the same approach for other areas of my life that I may want to make changes in, for
example;
friendships and eating healthier.
If no, what stopped you? - Doesn't apply to this task as I managed to complete my plan.
Internal things? Doesn't apply to this task.
External things? Doesn't apply to this task.
How could you have planned to tackle things? - Doesn't apply to this task.
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