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Use a daytimer or calendar that is large enough to write down what
you need to do and when. You may want the page big enough to record brief
facts, or telephone numbers you need to call, or short directions to where
you need to go.
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Many ADDers find computer programs for planning and time management
very beneficial. Making lists and checking off items when they are done
is an excellent strategy.
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Learning how to make and use an outline is excellent for planning,
as you are able to tell at a glance what groups of activities need to be
done together and in what order. Once again computer programs may be very
beneficial in helping you to do this.
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Once you find a planning system that works for you, make sure you
continue to use it even tough you may start to feel like you don't need
it anymore. If it's working, stick with it and refine it as you grow.
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Set aside time for evaluating how your planning and scheduling system
is working and what changes may need to be made.
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Always have a pad and pencil handy for recording things you need
to remember and a place to put those notes to refer to until done.
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Routine usually works best, but is not always possible with some
schedules or may not be preferred by many, so if you can do things routinely,
this may help.
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Have down time and fun time scheduled to help prevent becoming overwhelmed
or burnt out.
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Allow others to participate in the planning process at work and at
home. Results generally improve when people are allowed to participate
in the planning process.
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Make tedious tasks fun, by planning them as special events, and invite
friends to help you stuff those envelopes while you enjoy pizza and chat.
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Schedule work trades for things you don't like to do for things you
do like to do.
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Learn to delegate by making a list of tasks that fit into the following
categories:
Tasks only you can do. Tasks you should do, but others could do.
Tasks you could do, but others would if given the responsibility. Tasks
others should do, but you can help with if necessary. Tasks only others
can do.
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Follow up on any tasks that are delegated. This will be time well
spent, as it will help avoid doing the whole thing over or rushing to get
it done at the last minute.
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Gather all the thoughts and ideas you have first, before beginning
a project.
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List what your criteria are for success. If you are planning a project,
these criteria should be measurable, so you know you have accomplished
what you set out to do.
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Identify any resources or materials you may need before planning
or scheduling a project. Be sure to have them ready when they are needed,
so you can keep on schedule.
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Knowing what your standards of performance are for each project will
help you estimate the time you need to set aside for that project. If what
you are planning is very important, and needs to be high quality work,
then you will need to schedule sufficient time to make this happen.
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When planning projects of all magnitudes, it is a good idea to list
your objectives. This makes determining the amount of time you will need
easier.
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Check your progress at each planning stage, and congratulate yourself
for each step along the way.
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Always delineate responsibility and authority when delegating duties,
or planning with others.