This week began like most of my weeks — sitting with my journal before me. Typically, I check my appointments and make sure they’re all represented in the appropriate time slot. Then, I list everything I must finish during the week. Finally, I mark down the things I need to work on but, not necessarily finish. It’s a chance to bring together all the parts of my life like my work, my son’s school, church obligations, my husband’s work, and his army schedule. Like many people, it looks much fuller on paper than it does in my head.
For some time, my journal has been utilitarian. Each week, I open up a spread and create six even columns. Each of the first five columns gets a date at the top. The last column is split between the two weekend days.
Beneath that, I list the core hours of the day from 6 am-6 pm. Then, I put a line. Below the line, I create a list of things I must do during the day. Things I need to remember go at the bottom, like potential appointments or ideas.
I also use the final column to highlight a few essential things. There’s always extra space because the weekends don’t get a list by the hour. I just put a few notes on the day if needed. Once it’s mostly filled in, I add little quotes or doodles in the extra spaces. This happens toward the end of the week. If a day is pretty empty, I’ll make an extra box and decorate that emptiness.
How My Journal Keeps Me Motivated in the Winter
Every January, my husband and I promise that we’ll be productive after dark. Meaning we won’t crawl under the blankets and watch TV after putting our son to bed. That we’ll do something. On the flip side, this time of year benefits from extra rest. There’s a lot of illness that goes around and a little extra sleep can help with that. So, I’m always trying to find a balance between mindful rest and letting the cold weather suck the life out of my days.
Inspiring Quotes
I’m motivated by words and stories. If I come across a phrase or quote that inspires me, I jot it down.
Playful Doodles
Between tasks, I fill the space with doodles. Usually, I make a frame to separate it from the surrounding lists.
Tracking Progress
At the very least, winter can be a time to get things done. There’s less distractions and more quiet time at home. I like to use the time to set small goals and track my progress.
Planning for Fun
I tend to focus more on the things I need to do over the things I enjoy. So, I create seasonal checklist of fun things I’d like to do. These remind me to spend quality time with my son and create memories.
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About Danielle Verderame
I launched a retail marketing agency in Lynchburg, Virginia. Our small team specializes in marketing services for makers, eStores, and retailers. We’re ready to promote your store on any platform. If you’re looking for marketing help, email me at danielle@theshopshop.co.
