Some people may think it is still too early to plan for the coming year, but for me, I like to start in October because it gives me time to think and reflect. Planning is not just about scheduling events in a Calendar. It is a process, and it should be enjoyable rather than a daunting task. To keep this article short and simple, I will get straight to the point and summarize each point. For more information, you can leave me a comment on our website.
Here is the simple process that I find helpful for me.
- Reflection. As we begin to plan a new year, it is essential to reflect and identify what works, what was right, and what failed. Some questions to ask yourself are: What did I enjoy doing this year? What have I accomplished? What did I do that was beneficial to achieving my goals for this year? What should I not have done? What are some mistakes and I should avoid doing? How do I want next year to be like for me? What do I want to achieve? What are some places I wish to visit?
- Gratitude. Thanksgiving is such a big part of me, and I try to include it in every area of my life, even in planning. List down all the things you are grateful for this year. Write the names of people who you would like to thank. Think of how you would like to share your appreciation with them. Maybe a gift, a card, a cup of coffee or a surprise visit to say, 'thank you'. In your list, write beside each name how you would like to show them a little gratitude. Being thankful and spreading joy is an excellent way to end this year and to start a new year. Write the dates in your calendar for potential 'Coffee time' or dateline for sending out Gratitude cards, and so on.
- The Calendar. Now that our hearts are in the right place, we are fired up to face a new year with excitement and enthusiasm. Pick a planner or calendar system that best suits you. There are many varieties and designs, choose the one that you like with the method you can use. I usually research the various planners before I decide on the right one, and I change the type of planner I use every year. Often, I design my planner to suit my lifestyle.
- Recurring dates. In your new planner, mark all the events that reoccur every year, such as birthdays, holidays, anniversaries and other special occasions or events. Your new planner is ready!
You have just set up your planner, but if you like to take it a step further, coming upon my next post are some simple steps to setting goals and achieving them.
Start today, put in 1% effort every day to grow and develop yourself. You can do it!