5 Steps to Getting Organised Using Your Diary

APDO member Jane Fern and colleague Sue Pheasey share five steps to successfully using your diary so you never miss an appointment and are always ready for the following day.

 

I'm a fan of using a paper diary. Mine is the perfect size for me, and when closed measures 15cm x 11cm. Choose a diary that suits your needs - one that is not too heavy and has space enough to write appointments in but not too large so that it makes the diary bulky. I like mine to fit in my handbag.

 

A week's view over two pages works great because you can see at a glance what you have on that week. If you prefer to work digitally, there are several apps to support you with managing your diary. They are powerful tools that can help you remember what's next and in the future so you don't have to rely on your memory.

 

Get your diary up to date by adding all your appointments. Include things like children's swimming lessons, dental appointments and so on. Schedule everything, including one off or unusual tasks. For example, include jobs like making a trip to the bank, or returning an item of clothing.

Use your diary as an aid to your memory but avoid over-scheduling. Things that you know you will remember to do - such as taking the kids to school, going to work or checking emails - can be left out because otherwise it becomes a burden and you don't want to turn your diary into a to do list.

 

Some diaries have a ribbon to mark the current page, but if yours doesn't then use a large paper clip and slide it over all the pages that have already past so that your diary easily opens at the current week's page. Each time you move onto the following week, tuck that page under the paper clip or move the ribbon forward.

 

Check your diary every evening so that you can get organised for the following day. Aim to always get what you need ready the night before. For example, if you are taking the kids swimming, get their swimming kit ready rather than leaving it until the morning.

Or if you have an appointment, think about what clothes you are going to wear and take five minutes to get them ready. If you have a hospital appointment make sure you have the letter and any directions you need. Check the map to review the location, and your travel arrangements. 

 

Check your diary every morning to remind you what's coming up in your day.