Women balance a lot. Whether married or single, with or without children, there remain a wide range of details that must be juggled to maintain a well managed life. Unfortunately, that management is often lacking simply because the right tool is missing.

So, what is that tool? It’s a planner. The type of planner or time management system chosen will differ from one woman to the next. But, a tool that allows record of appointments, notes, and goals is critical to maintain a healthy and well-managed life.

Memory Tool

There is just something about handwriting that reinforces memory. The action of writing something out by hand forces us to slow down and think more deeply about what we are taking note of. Additionally, a planner with a weekly and/or monthly view allows us to take in at a glance the fullness of our notes every single time we look at a single event or to-do. This reinforcement, accompanied by writing it out in the first place, reinforces what stays in our minds, causing us to forget fewer tasks or appointments.

Long-Term Planning & Goals

Long-term goals are critical for solid time management. They help us keep the big picture in mind while also enabling us to break that big picture down into manageable chunks. Whether it’s a home or work project or a personal health goal, it’s important to record plans beyond the immediate day or week.  Although sticky notes and notebooks may work decently well for these goals, planners make it much easier to keep them well organized.

Notes & More

Think about that information card the doctor hands you that you need to hang on to. Or the extra information about an event that needs to be jotted down quickly. Perhaps there’s a shopping list that needs to be on hand the next time there’s a free moment to run to the store. Even something as simple as a paper clip attached to the back cover of a planner can allow great flexibility for keeping up with those extras that need to be considered as we walk through life.

Improved Rest & Health

Let’s face it. We all walk around tired. We run a hectic pace because it’s hard to keep track of just how much is packed into each day and week. A planner helps us pull back from that a bit.  As with the memory reinforcement, every time we look at the planner, we see the big picture. And when the big picture is in view, we can wisely avoid overcommitting  and also protect space for rest and nourishment.

The most important aspect of planning is actually getting around to doing it! When we establish a habit of planning, we are on our way to becoming healthier and more relaxed women in the midst of a very unhealthy and rushed culture.