People often ask me about the different tools and resources I use to run my voice over business. In fact, I even published an eBook that offers some insights and answers to that very question (Tools in My Voice Over Toolbox).
One of the tools not included in the book is one I wasn’t using at the time. It’s my personal planner.
Until 2017, I was very much a digital guy. My goals and plans were tracked using a spreadsheet and Evernote. Since I basically always have my phone with me, or at the very least, some form of digital access – be it computer, phone, tablet or otherwise – keeping stuff in the cloud seemed like the best solution.
Until the fall. When I read a few different blogs and articles about journaling and using a planner.
I decided to give it a try. I’m open to any new suggestions. Especially if they can increase my productivity, focus or help me achieve my goals.
My Personal Planner Preference
After some research, I settled on the Ink+Volt Planner.
This year has been the first year I’ve kept a handwritten planner / journal. So far, I’m loving it.
I can’t quite explain what it is, but there’s just something totally different about taking time each week to thoughtfully and intentionally write goals and make plans. Then, keep yourself accountable to those goals and plans by spending some time journalling your progress each day.
It’s absolutely different from using a digital tool.
And, for me anyway, it’s made a big difference. After the first quarter of 2017, I’m already well ahead of where I was at the end of Q1 in 2016. Much of that credit unquestionably goes to my Ink+Volt Planner, and the way it’s made to rethink the way I do things.
Start Writing Things Down
I’ve always said that goals need to be written down. It just never occurred to me how much of a difference there could be between writing them on a computer and writing them on paper. Trust me, there’s a difference!
Success doesn’t happen by accident. Goals don’t get checked off without a plan.
If you’ve never tried using a personal planner, I highly recommend you give it a shot!
