Let the planning commence!

Hey everyone!

OK, so far, we've dived into finding your 'why,' some budgeting advice, and if you caught the latest podcast "Navigating Career Heights," you've heard some time management tips from a COO in the making. Now, let's talk planning because we're about to level up the game!

Enter "Grow-up, Ro" – my passion project where I'm the Boss, the CEO, and yeah, my top investor. However, with bills to pay, investments to make, and dreams to fund. I'm the Senior Manager for Operational Excellence at a Pharmaceutical Company. I do love my job and the people I work with but, I'm all about making life as memorable and as epic as you can, and that includes making sure there's a plan in place. Cue my go-to superhero – the calendar! It's on my phone and laptop, and recently, I snagged a  Large Dry Erase Wall Calendar.

Why? Seeing my year's game plan on a big board not only helps me plan my expenditures appropriately but also keeps me on track toward my goals.

When organizing your calendar, consider including the following key items:

• Your loved ones' birthdays

• National holidays

• Religious Holidays

• Pay-days

• Trips (Vacations, work trips, etc.)

• Key appointments (Medical, dental, Coaching sessions, Therapy sessions, etc.)

• Work-out days including sports (e.g., tennis, golf, basketball, etc.)

• Car inspection

• Days in the office (if applicable for those with a set number of days at the office per week)

Color code each item for visual clarity. Additionally, make space for the following:

• Spend time reading, journaling, praying/meditating to set yourself up for the day. Having a dedicated time for personal reflection can positively impact your daily mindset. Consider the advice of a fitness coach who emphasized its importance.

• Dinners/Drinks with friends and family. Finding a balance between social engagements and personal time is crucial for a well-rounded lifestyle.

• Regular finance/budgeting days. If you're embarking on budget tracking, schedule weekly sessions to understand and manage your spending habits effectively.

• Reflection Time: Consider adding a designated time for self-reflection. This could be a separate item or included within the reading, journaling, praying, or meditating time. Reflecting on your goals, achievements, and areas for improvement can enhance personal growth.

• Meal Planning: If meal planning is a part of your routine, you might want to allocate time for grocery shopping and meal preparation. This can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

• Professional Development: If applicable, schedule time for professional development activities, such as online courses, workshops, or networking events.

• Hobbies/Passion Projects: If you have hobbies or passion projects, allocate time for them. It's essential to have moments of enjoyment and creativity.

• Rest Days: Ensure you have days where you prioritize rest and relaxation. Overloading your schedule can lead to burnout, so having days dedicated to unwinding is crucial.

Remember that your calendar should reflect your personal priorities and goals. Feel free to customize it based on what works best for you and any specific aspects of your life that are important to include.