My Facebook feed has been flooded with “new analog” time management systems — really just fancy index cards to help people prioritize their day. The ad claims that if your calendar or notes are on your phone or computer, when you go to look at them it’s easy to get distracted by email or other apps. They note the simplicity of “analog” (i.e. handwritten) prevents that temptation.
I’ve been using handwritten to-do lists and calendars forever and I agree with their assertion that tactile is better. Simple is better, too.
I’m a fan of having a daily to-do list with one or two “must-do’s” for the day. It’s a given that you’ll be bombarded with other inputs and distractions that pull you away from what you thought you were going to do, and if you allow them, they will have you working sideways all day. To move one step forward, you must be intentional about accomplishing that “must-do” despite the diversions.
Whether you use an actual system, Post-it notes, index cards, or a whiteboard, before you end your day try writing out the top priority for the next day. Having that focus may help you accomplish it.
