The Promise
I will use a calendar, either electronic or paper, to schedule my life for a minimum of 30 days.
Impact of the Promise
Using a calendar could be difficult at first. It may seem that writing out events could take more time than just doing them, but minimal planning can pay off in the long run. In fact, a series of five studies by researchers from the Peking University HSBC Business School, the Korea University Business School, and the University of Iowa shows that students who plan their approach to coursework, major exams, and job interviews tend to experience lower stress levels and more confidence in their work. If you have ever felt like you procrastinate too often, consistently utilizing a calendar could benefit you.
Calendars have more practical benefits as well. In an article about time management, the University of Southern Maine states, “The brain can only hold a certain number of individual pieces of information in the conscious mind at one time.” If you consider yourself a busy person, having a calendar is a must. It will allow you to prioritize what is most important to you, while also ensuring that you are able to spend an adequate amount of time on each aspect of your life.
Action Items
Do
- Schedule time to watch this calendaring video
- Choose the calendar method that works best for you, i.e. electronic format like Google Calendar or paper weekly/daily calendar
- Spend 30 minutes on Sunday evening scheduling your next week
- Use a calendar for 30 days
Don’t
- Tackle this promise alone – having someone keeping you accountable could help
- Always think about planning; balance staying in the moment and preparing for the future
Resources:
- https://www.psychologicalscience.org/news/minds-business/trying-to-get-ahead-plan-in-reverse-study-suggests.html#:~:text=Research%20has%20shown%20that%20envisioning,lead%20to%20more%20effortful%20actions.
- https://usm.maine.edu/agile/planning-ahead
Element of Honor
Accountability
Accountability: I must be willing to accept personal responsibility for what I have done and what I have failed to do – both in what is good and what is not. Accountability helps me understand that my decisions have consequences. I help hold others accountable, but before I become too upset with the broken promises of others, I remember that I too have weakness.
Did you complete this Individual Action Plan?
If you have completed this Individual Action Plan, tell us about it!
Please share your experience here!