Quarter / Year

*Designed by Carol Follett - Instructor/Tutor @BTC 2015
*Web-Version by Russell Mitchell - Instructional Designer @BTC 2025

Good Scheduling Habits

Create a Master Schedule

Start with a blank one-week schedule. It's easiest to do this exercise on paper first and then incorporate your electronic devices.

1. Write in non-negotiable appointments and commitments (things “carved in stone”).
2. Put in needed items (things you might be able to change if you had to).
3. Insert optional or flexible events.
4. Transfer to other calendars (family, electronic, posted).

Use End of Day Routines

List your victories for the day—share with someone else when possible (based on ideas from Jack Canfield and The Success Principles).

Organize and prepare for the next day—consider using the Ivy Lee Method.

Don't forget to organize your environment (study area, kitchen, bath, and dressing areas).

Ivy Lee Method

• At the end of the day, make a list of no more than 6 things you need to accomplish the next day.
• Prioritize this list. [Mark tasks from most to least important]
• Work from the list, starting with task #1.
• At the end of your work/school day, take time for family and friends.
• Repeat the process.

Do a Weekly Review

Traditionally on Sunday night, but pick a day/time that works for you.

• Ask: What worked this week?
• Ask: What needs to be changed for next week?
• Ask: How do I feel about my progress?

Perform a Monthly Check-in

Instructor, Adviser, Counselor, or Accountability Partner.

• Ask: Am I making progress, barely keeping up, or falling behind?
• Ask: Do I need more support or new strategies?
• Ask: Is it time for a mini-victory party?

*The Ivy Lee Method has been around for a long time and is popular because it's simple and effective and keeps us from multitasking too much. Though created almost 100 years ago, this method built in the concept of work-home balance.