A few months back I implemented a method of organizing personal tasks I had to complete around the home using a Bullet Journal. This started with purchasing a regular notebook, listing tasks and events for each month, assigning each task to a week, then adding each task to a specific day. I could see on all the tasks I had to complete during the week on one page making each day more manageable. If I had a dinner to go to on one evening, I could assign grocery shopping for the next. If my car insurance was due during the month, I could schedule the payment for that particular week. If I couldn’t get all my tasks completed for a day, I could use a symbol to denote that it be moved to the next. Yes, this sounds exactly like using a calendar, but there is something about physically writing out tasks and marking them complete that has helped me be more productive around the home and less overwhelmed during busy weeks.
Since this method had been so helpful around the house, I wondered if I could apply the same idea to my work tasks. Instead of using a journal, I created a grid system on my white board. I listed out each of the projects I was working on for the month, broke down what needed to be completed for the week, then listed out tasks for each day with a checkbox next to each item. Seeing my goals for any given day immediately helped me stay focused on what I was working on and physically marking items complete was one of the most rewarding feelings.
I started my Bullet Journal at work by creating a list of all of the projects I was working on at the time.
Next, I outlined my week by making a list of specific tasks that needed to be completed.
In order to complete my tasks for the week, I broke each task down into manageable items for each day. I usually start each morning by updating my daily list of tasks. Here, I’ve outlined each day for the entire week. I’ve also left a space for notes.
What makes Bullet Journaling unique are the different symbols used to denote various meanings. I created a key for my work journal to organize the different kinds of tasks I had. I included a symbol for a completed task, a started task, moving a task to another day, and if that task was assigned to someone else.
Once I complete a task, I can cross it off the list, assign it to someone else, or move it to the next day.
At the end of the week, I can reap the feelings of accomplishments that come with a completed task list.
Using the bullet list has increased my focus and helped me prioritize tasks in any given week. The beauty of this method is it’s flexibility. I can make it simple or as complex as I need. Check out these inspirational journals and get started increasing your productivity!