ADHD Adult: How to Use a Calendar Like a Pro
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I know a calendar sounds so boring, but oh boy, it works miracles! If you haven’t tried using one before or even if you have, but with bad experiences, please give it another shot with the following tips. Just, please, don’t lose it straight away!
(Ok just kidding, but seriously, one good tip is to dedicate only a few places you are “allowed” to leave it, for example, just on the desk, kitchen table and your handbag. This way at least you have three places to check first when you are looking for it!)
1 – Get only one calendar
I know, I know, what’s better than shopping for countless organizers, planners, diaries, and notebooks? But seriously, just stick to one. It is easier to find, all your notes will be in one place and they won’t be contradicting each other.
How about printable planner or planner with changeable covers? This way you can quickly update it when you get bored.
2 – Write everything down
Like, everything. The traditional dentist appointments, job interviews, and birthdays of course, but also when bills are overdue (maybe a reminder a few days ahead?), interesting happenings, when your friend is going for a holiday, when your trash collection comes… This way it’ll be easier to make plans for the coming week as you can have a quick glance over everything. Nothing takes you by surprise and your friend won’t be upset that you forgot her holiday… once again.
3 – Estimate how long things will take
Not only does it give you more structure to your day, you also won’t fill it up too much. It will also help you to take note how long things actually end up taking, so you get better at scheduling and timekeeping.
4 – Write down what you need to prepare
For example, if your friend’s birthday is coming up, write down everything you need to prepare for their birthday: get a present, find suitable clothes, book a nanny, etc. etc. Give yourself enough time! Especially if the event is very important, it usually doesn’t hurt to prepare things too early. I know it is much easier said than done, not to leave it for the last minute, but this is where the calendar comes handy – you can think about, organize, and most importantly, schedule all these things beforehand, with no rush.
5 – Don’t forget to write things that will support your life goals in the long term
Even if they are just small things. If you have a goal of spending more time with your loved ones, reserve a slot for them in your calendar – you can write things like “call a friend”, “text mum” or “go for a coffee with a friend”. If you want to improve your mental well-being, reserving time for things like a relaxing bath, meditation and a long walk in the forest could work really well.
6 – Put your calendar somewhere you can see it, and most of all – remember to check it!
You know the saying “out of sight, out of mind?” It works other way round too. Make sure your calendar is somewhere you can easily see it. Check your day’s schedule in the morning, but also the coming days, so things won’t take you by surprise.
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