Actions that match intentions

A system for doing better? Here's hoping

March 20, 2021

In December 2016 I wrote this and updated it yesterday:

For years I've whined about the fact that "I don't do what I intend to do."

At some point in a typical day, I might say to myself “Self, here’s what I intend to do.” Later, I realize that I had an enjoyable, even productive day, but I didn't do what I told myself that I intended to do.

The system

I may have created a system for making this happen. If I did, I’ve forgotten. So here’s what I want, operationalized:

  1. Each morning, and periodically through the day, I decide how to spend my time that day.

  2. I write what I’ve decided.

  3. Maybe I don’t plan the whole day, but I have a list of things that I want to do.

  4. I set a timer for each task and check when I’m done or the timer goes off.

  5. I keep the list current.

  6. I make written notes as I work.

  7. Before I start a new activity and periodically while I’m working, I remind myself to be mindful of what I am doing and what I intend to do.

  8. Shit happens. If I’m interrupted, I take a moment to decide what I intend to do about the interruption: ignore, reject, or accept. I write what I have decided.

  9. At the end of each day, and sometimes during the day, I review my plan and compare it to what I have accomplished.

  10. Each day I review the day and look for ways to make my actions better-match my intentions, and look for ways that I might be more productive in the future.

  11. I write anything I’ve learned.

  12. Writing is essential. I remind myself of that.

Every day

Every day I want to:

  1. Make my plan (by updating the previous day’s plan)

  2. Meditate 2x (and set times to do that)

  3. ACIM 2x (and set times to do that)

  4. Writing—clean out the pipe

  5. Writing: post something

  6. Review my day

Mechanics

I spent too long today trying to find a place to post my plan.

This is just nuts!

I have Roam. It’s good and it’s adaptable.

What else do I need?

Tomorrow, I start.

 

. Compassion 2. Gratitude 3. Forgiveness 4. Future Dreaming 5. Perfect Day 6. Blessing