We are in 2021 at the moment of this comment and when I watch your video, this remember me how people hide themselves behind smartphone just to presume they are effective and efficient. My phone is always with me to get out of my head things while I'm in errand mode but there is nothing like a good old paper planner to be confronted to you and your thinking. I really love the way you passed throughout your process. I'm a bullet journal guy for the moment combined with Evernote, todoist and google calendar but I can't ignore the sexy aspect of the Franklin covey layout in the planning process. Thanks for sharing!
There's no reason you can't use this format in a bullet journal. The only thing Ryder Carroll doesn't do in the Bullet Journal system is prioritizing the tasks (which is easily added). 💖🌞🌵😷
Thanks Jim - this was a great “no-nonsense” video. I work in IT, and have a wealth of tools at my fingertips, however nothing works for keeping the zen as much as a paper planner! 👍🏻
I watch this video every couple of years for motivation. Seeing your video prompted me to get into the franklin planner after a promotion to the front office. It has served me well. I also grew up near Frankenmuth.
I agree with you that digital is not the same. I tried ever since 2012, and from that point until this year when I returned to my handwritten planner, I've felt totally disconnected. I'm here watching your video to reacquaint myself with the Franklin planner system, the system I used when I was at my most productive. I have to say that ever since I returned to the system, I've felt so much more connected. It's funny how something so "old school" can make a person feel connected. I think the connection has to do with being able to take notes, write thoughts, plan, set goals, etc, and have everything in one place. As you've said, there's something about writing something by hand (and not keying in on a mobile device) that creates the connection. Even the app versions that claim to be like a Franklin have not been successful for me. I do believe that I'll always be manually writing.
A Renee Holmes muscles have memory......the brain is feeling your hand writing stuff....it's feeling emotions you have for certain tasks....all this vibrations are part of making marks on paper.
Sorry for the delay in comment - wow - 2 years ago. I too feel more connected to my surroundings. It is easy to stray back to "floaties" but I always pull myself back to - all notes in one place. It is still a problem that I do not forward my tasks every day, but so what!! I do it at least 4 to 5 days each week. The perfect system though is review your tasks at the end of the day and start focusing on tomorrow & forward them appropriately. (sometimes a task might get pushed forward 5 days... - JIM
Hello, Franklin Covey has earned a pretty penny from at least me, me due to YOUR UA-cam video. Word of mouth is often best form of advertisement. You are hopefully being compensated like other YUA-cam. Your video is the best demonstrated through and efficiently applicable...whereas other channels, great in their own way, have an overwhelming number of videos on the Franklin planner, designed towards generating views but too many videos is unnecessary and muddles the point. ......I posted after receiving my first planner. My hubby bought me my first Franklin for Valentines Day 2021. I've loved planners since childhood. I had been fantasizing about Franklin Covey planners since seeing your video a few years ago but could never justify the price to myself. Finally, after repeatedly over spending on a Michael's craft knock off I got one. Since then, I've obsessed and bought the Stsphen Covey related books for myself and teen daughter. I recommend to everyone.
After watching this video 2 years ago, I started using a FP, as Jim explains. I also watched the 3 FP videos too. ❤ my Franklin Planner! Keeps me on track with a fast paced and high volume job. Tried many other systems electronically and analog, only using the Franklin Planner as its designed has worked. I check my FP before I accept an electronic meeting invite, add the meeting in my FP. Everyday I check both my FP & outlook calendar to ensure both match. Use FP as it’s designed to use to get the most planning benefits.
Resurrecting my Franklin Planner after many years (like Renee below, except longer) trying to go digital. So appreciate the tutorial to refresh my brain and remind me why I loved it so much.
Cool... I never thought about this being a go back and refresh course. BUT I EVEN need to remind myself to stay on the straight and narrow about being focused on "what matters most". You often get stuck in the dozens of trivial things that happen each day and realize... I didn't finish anything I wanted to today... Re-prioritizing is a constant process "between your ears".
Great video Jim! Like you I started with the Day Timer planning system over 20 years ago (I also used Franklin Covey for a brief time but preferred Day Timers, it was my first 😊) and they provided similar productivity tips like the ones you shared which I continue to use till this day. Like some have mentioned in the comments, recently the focus in the planner community has shifted to 'pretty planning' which I'm afraid has distorted the true meaning of 'planning' for many so it's great to see real functional planning videos like yours popping up on UA-cam so please keep 'em comin'!
Lil Divette i appreciate a real planning video with out all the stickers and washi tape. Gets right to the point. I will use a sticker for a special occasion. I need to get on point because I waste a ton of time.
I've been using a Franklin planner since 1995 and swear by it. I've been using the Five Choices planner for several years now, but I am thinking about going back to the Original planner. Thanks for the refresher, along with real-life examples of use.
Very much appreciate your detailed Franklin planner walk-through. The computer connect is important but, as so many have pointed out, hardcopy is an anchor that can serve immediately and can include details.
It is. If you want to truly focus on what is important today (versus tomorrow) and save time by being able to refer quickly back to the details... a planner beats digital every time.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you said the digital calendars are just "too hidden." I was a faithful Franklin planner user for I would say 20 years, then the iPhone came out. In theory, the digital calendar with its alarms and notifications is great! But the practical application of a digital calendar loses something because it's not hands-on, and you can't see a year at a glance, a month at a glance, or even a day without clicking and opening up one item at a time. I think I am more of a visual person and that is why I need to see a month at a glance or a year at a glance and work from there. Clicking back-and-forth to take a peek just did not work for me.
Man, that Projects and numbered File System you have going on there was like a BINGO! moment. That is just the tip I need. Thank you very much for sharing it.
Jim, this was excellent! I’m returning to using a Franklin planner as of today (just ordered a new set of pages & binder this morning) after having put it aside for a number of years. Your video was a great refresher course! Ty
Excellent video! Love the Franklin planner! Truly if you use it the way it was meant to be used, as you described, nothing will fall through the cracks. In many of the videos now days, these people are using 4 or 5 planners. I don't know how they manage to do this without having a total catastrophe! Thanks!
Thank you for teaching me the importance of a planner I can TRUST; having everything in ONE place, ONE planner. I saw this video years ago and I just finally got my Franklin Planner! At first, I could not justify the cost. I ended up spending more money on imitations but time management, tasks, etc were ALWAYS spread across MULTIPLE sections, not in ONE place for EACH day, leaving them unreliable. Before watching your video, I used phone, family calendar, and a planner.
Thank you so much for this practical and insightful video! You have truly helped me to get back to the basics of why I have a planner in the first place!
I agree with the benefits of writing things down, but take that planner and throw it off a bridge...unnerving at the very least. I know digital isnt the best, but I wont lose anything if my phone vanished. However, in keeping with the "write it down" idea, I do use a tablet and stylus. If you spend a little, you can get very nice electronic tools. E-Ink tablets use almost no battery and can give you all the connectivity benefits of electronics with the feel and mental connection of writing. If you toss it out of a plane, it is just a couple hundred dollars out of your pocket but all your information is saved and you can grab another one (backups are life) and sync it and be up and running in no time. Ultimately, this video is well done and viable for any daily planning solutions.
Thank you Jim, for sharing your 25 years of wisdom. Me too have tried many different systems online, and ended up with the bullet journal (The original version, not the artistic version) as the planner is too big for me to carry around. the planner system is great for people who have a lot of tasks but I take notes way more than task managing. Many people who presented their planners made it so pretty that it is a total waste of time to follow. Great tips especially about the bucket and the rocks.
2:23 plan the important things first, the metaphor of big and little rocks 4:40 prio code: a must b want c would like. Strike when done, put a point when task has begun. Deal with interruption with notes sheets Put less important task some days later when no time availible (with or without prio). 19:33 tab stays unless every task of the day is moved or done., Sona late tab means there is something to reprogram 21:33 index important notes of the month on the monthly index
Finally a planner video that is actually about planning and not just washi tape, stickers and yoga classes. Thanks for that. But I have to ask: You method(s) appear a little bit old fashioned (which is fine, if it works for you). GTD as method and BuJo as a syntax (it is not method) made thinks so much more universal and compatible with digital communication for me.
Thanks Jim, I bought a digital Franklin Planner for my iPad Pro. I have watched you video a couple of times and am using your technique to digital plan w/Apple Pencil. This helps a lot!
Just noticed the Frankenmuth before you said Frankenmuth. I miss visiting Frankenmuth, the chicken, the fudge/sweets, the sights and smells. I need to visit Michigan again very soon. Thanks for the happy memories and thanks for the assistance in learning to schedule better.
Your so welcome Justin. I am C.O.O. for Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth. I have eaten a lot of our chicken working here now for 41 years and in a Franklin Planner for over 30 years!
I come from the gutter in life, I had a manager real asshole, but one thing he gave me was the emphasis on planning your day. He came from a college background and I can see where it helped him with organization. So this is one thing I can take from him, people come into your life for a reason. We worked in the construction field (sales) you can look at someone who is successful and what are the building blocks to success. Organization should be number one.
Like watching this every once in while. Too difficult to use when you are busy (use todoist) but I miss the old school simple way of getting things done.
I have swayed in and out a little bit but each time I COMMIT to it, I feel more in control. When the number of tasks seem insurmountable, I meet with MY BOSS - who owns the company and ask her to re-clairfy my priorities. Sometimes we end up eliminating some of the things that seemed important 2 weeks ago and no are NOT!
Great Video! I never used a planner because it was never clear enough or easy to use. I just got a job as a field service technician and it requires appointments and tracking expenses and so on. I was given this planner and I'm going to get try and stick to it. Your system is pretty good.
Good Luck Luis! Only have ONE calendar in your life for all things. Let your spouse or significant other drop items into it too. You could have them note things in the monthly page at the beginning of each month or onto the appropriate pages. It is great to look at one place for everything. You can actually buy expense report pages or if you have a copier that shrinks, you can shrink to fit in the planner. - JIM
Awesome. Congrats on the new job. Break big projects into smaller parts and they will be more manageable. You will easily get distracted and stop using it for a day (or two or five). Don't give up - catch up the tasks from the past and get right back in the saddle!!! Good Luck!
Please come back and do more videos. I'd like to know if you are still using your Franklin or if you have found another solution. Great video/tutorial.
Thanks for the compliment Matt. I am working on some priorities for shorter videos on specific niche ideas on getting organized with so many things to do. Standby!!
Hello Jim Great Video on using Franklin Planner , Question for you How’s it best to plan Weekly Is it best to , list all of Tasks , Big Rocks , roles , Appointments/ events , etc Then schedule the week ? How’s it best to plan each day ? Do you by chance , still have The Time Quest Workbook ? A PDF Copy When you took the original course ? Thank you Jim .
Thank you so much for that amazing information! I love my Franklin Covey planner and was trying to figure out how to simplify it but still add everything I want for planning and tracking. This was perfect. Thank you!
Completely different from all the current planner videos where they have like 2-4 planners to track things in. I used to love my FC planners before it got so hard to find the refills for them.
👍I recently donated mine to a Goodwill location because I started relying on my digital device. It was a beautiful black leather. I’m kinda regretting it now but I hope someone makes good use of it. 💞
YOU TOO may come back someday! I have tried tasks in outlook and they just don't work the same for me. I love tkaing notes on the daily pages and that I can reference back to them over the next week or two and I don't have some stack on my desk haunting me to have to look thru!
I have a planner like the one you purchased at Goodwill. It is functional, but the leather is dry and I have one million bits of burgundy leather all over my papers. The planner is at least 11 years old, but I will try to treat it with some kind of leather oil.
Thank you! Wonderful and informative. I really wish I had seen this earlier in the year. I am debating if I will be able to use this system efficiently as a newbie. I will revisit this system before the new year starts. The explanation of the note side and references was so helpful. Thank you again!
Thank you for this detailed video. I just received my first Franklin Planner and the starter kit gives you a quick & dirty explanation of how to use the planner but doesn't go into nearly as much detail as you've done.
Do you by any chance have any of the original Franklin Planner pages? I began with them and always preferred that system to the Covey system and would love to be reminded what the originals looked like, in case there is anything I want to re-incorporate. Thanks!
I first watched months ago to get started and now I'm rewatching to pick up more tips. I would like to know more about your file system (f6). I have 2 outlook calendars. I am an elected official. I have 2 outlook calendars; 1 personal and 1 city commitments. I use my Franklin planner daily calander as a block time calander. For example, house tasks, errands, desk work, meetings, projects. My outlook calander is for more specific information. Thanks for the great information
Wow... tough having two calendars. BUT I see why you did it. I am not sure if you can make two calendars viewable on teh same screen at the same time to minimize duplicate data. But that would be helpful (as opposed to toggling back and forth). I still use one calendar for everything. That is the Franklin Covey way. It is a cardinal sin in their approach to have two calendars. Still get it for you though. Especially if you have to share the Government one with co-workers in the office. But I love the notes being in the planner. I carry spare blank lined sheets and add a second page to the day if I have a lot of notes. I only add maybe 5 or so a month though. But it is all quick at hand. Not on a yellow lined tablet. I haven't used a yellow tablet of paper in 20 years... or more!
The problem I have found with the prioritization column - especially assigning priorities in advance - is that my work environment is fast-paced and priorities shift quickly and frequently. If I set priorities the night before and check my email the next morning to see that my boss has assigned 3-5 new tasks to me, that often blows up my plan. So for me, it’s just easier to bullet point tasks and keep track of their status using the status tracker on the left. I can pretty much eyeball my list and know priorities. Or.... I suppose a moveable “master tasks” list can be kept underneath the pagefinder/bookmark, with slits cut into the holes for easier movement between pages. Then limit the daily task list to the few items you plan to tackle that day. This entire dilemma speaks to the fact that the FC system was created prior to the digital age, with email, shared digital calendars, etc, which drastically increased the pace of life and work.
Good Point YOU... I use blank lined pages sometimes when I have fast paced changes and "float the page forward with each day. I often can have 12 tasks on a day and only get to 2 of them. The bigger project ones tend to be easier to write on a blank planner page that I float forward for a while instead of re-writing them. But the Franklin Planner idea is that you do "what matters most" today. If that TRULY is your bosses tasks - then so-be-it. But it makes sense to clarify with them if those tasks take a higher priority over the other tasks at hand. Communication can reclarify priorities the BEST. It this case... verbal would be best - not email.
In your Outlook calendar why don’t you colour code your events so that you can see at a glance what events are related to your assistant, your wife, and your family? I find that really helpful in my outlook (for work)? I use a Google calendar for family (very busy teenagers - work, school, competitive athletes). Each person uses a different colour and everyone has access to the calendar on their mobile. At a glance we can see who is where and when. This system with my planner (which only I have access to) keeps us all on track.
Hi Jim! If I had seen this video when I first purchased my planner in the '90s, I would have been way ahead of the game! In just 25 minutes, you explained this very well! I was doing a search on the Franklin planner, and I ran across your tutorial. Your video cemented the ideas I read in the book, "Time Management Magic," by Lee Cockerell. It's similar to what you share. But for me, it's more powerful seeing how you would use the Franklin Planner. THANK YOU! Question: How would you handle delegation? In other words, how would you know when to follow up with the person you delegated the task? And, how do you notate their response if they are still working on the task?
When I delegate a task I make a note of the details on the right hand page and the expected deadline. Follow up depends on the person or the task... But when I setup the project I have a good idea when to follow, let's say in this example: in one week from today. So I turn to that page and write on the left hand page "follow up on project ____ see 7/1/22 for notes". If she finishes early, I make a note of our conversation on that day's page and I cross off the task to follow up in the future. If, not... I follow up in one week and write the status on the notes page. If another follow up is needed I turn to that future page and enter another task. ... Think of this planner as not only a calendar, but a sort of diary to keep track of the status of things and conversations (whether telephone or in person ... You could even notate correspondence... Received John's confirmation and a check today). 💖🌞🌵😷
@@suzisaintjames Genius! You made this very easy to understand! The explanation was great, but for me the example was Gold! I always understand a lot better with examples, and this example clicked immediately in my mind. I'm incorporating this idea. Even though this video Jim made close to seven years ago, I still find it very valuable. Each reply in this video (plus the video) has created a better understanding for me. Although I still use my Google Calendar for my business I use my Day-Timer daily for tasks, notes, follow-ups, and appointments. Paper and pen (or pencil) give me a feeling that I won't forget any future tasks or appointments. By the way, I use the Two Page Per Day Wirebound 3" X 5" and I love it! www.daytimer.com/p/planners-calendars-organizers/planner-organizer-refills/daily-planner-organizer-refills/2023-two-page-per-day-original-planner-refill-compact-size-960102301/ My 2023 Jan-Dec is ordered and will be arriving this week. Thank you again for replying and sharing your method on following up. ~ Alex
I miss my Franklin Covey system. It really was the best I've used; but now it's so hard to get filler pages now that I live in Europe... and they're stupidly expensive.
Do you print out Outlook calendar days and put them into your planner? I had a boss that did that for busy days, but as I have a lot of shared calendars, this is driving me nuts.
+SC Nurse I originally produced the video to share with the Managers and Supervisors in my Company. I knew that many of them would not be at my general session so I did the video so it would be viewable by the other 15 people missing. What a shock to see it has had 1,473 views in two months! Best wishes in being more organized... it is a never ending endeavor!
+Jim Engel There is a HUGe planning community in fb, UA-cam, and Instagram. Unfortunately for some of us, the focus is on "pretty planning", not functional planning. So whenever there is quality content such as yours, it is definitely shared! Hope you upload more planning topics. Thanks again for sharing!
Jim, this is a great video! I have a few questions. Let's say you have a random task that you know you'll do at some point, but not sure when. Where do you list that in your system? Also, let's say you sit down to have a brainstorm for a project--do you just use your notes page or do you use a separate paper that would slide in between your two daily pages? GG
+thegoatgirlcr Great Questions! Random Tasks - I suggest you post the task on the first date you think it is potentially possible you will work on it. If that day comes and you cannot do it, you choose a future date AGAIN. then place an arrow in front of the task today. I currently have a task I want to do but I have forwarded it for 4 months now. But... it didn't slip thru the cracks!! For special projects over a number of hours, my first choice is to use additional lined pages for all my notes. I place stars in front of each actionable thing that I write in the notes. I plot out the actionable items onto appropriate days into the future. I keep the notes on the day of the session. Behind each task written in the future I place the date the notes are recorded under so I can reference back for more detail if I forget what to do. I DO NOT USE POST IT NOTES. They eventually will fall out of your planner. They are evil and should only be used to write notes to others. Don't use them for your own tasks! Thanks GG!!
Some of us also use an area called "brain dump." Whether it's a sheet of paper, a whole section, or even just a (gasp!) post it note, the concept is to have a dedicated space to quickly jot whatever is on your mind. From there you can place each task/idea wherever it would naturally live in your system. There is also a running master task list where every task goes. The beauty of binder and disc systems is that running to do list can get moved from week to week (or day to day).
+Jim Engel I understand now. Do you also have a section in your planner where you track specific or ongoing projects with project notes? Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions!
+SC Nurse Great idea! So, I want to make sure I understand: you have an entire section for master tasks that you look through during your daily or weekly overview to plan on getting them accomplished?
+thegoatgirlcr For most projects I do not have a special tab. I used to have numbered tabs in the back and used each tab for special projects. Now I use F-files. I mentioned them in the video. I have 20 hanging file folders in my desk drawer (closer at hand then the file cabinet) They are simply numbered 1 thru 20. When I have a special project, I take the folder to all meetings on that subject or pull it when on the phone. Any reference of work to do then has a (F-20) written behind the task and the data resides inside file 20. I find that a tabbed area isn't enough because of handouts or notes from others sent to me.
I need to come back to this page more often... I apologize for the delay! STILL THE SAME. I am noting some side things I do to get more organized with projects and tasks to stay on top of things. SO I hope to do some other smaller videos shortly! Standby!
Ive used Franklin Planner (since before it was Franklin Quest... how scary is that?) off and on for a number of years, but because most of my days arent packed with activity I stopped using the dated fillers and just used the lined paper and tabs. I was mostly notes every day when I did use the dated ones. I now just transfer forward what I need to until whatever it is is completed. For work I rely exclusively on Outlook. Its kinda scary if it crashed and dumped everything, I would be in SO much trouble. I send myself emails with a reminder attached when I have a lot to remember for that day.
The big one is the Monarch. I suggest going to the Classic (5.5" X 8.5") and buy extra lined pages. You can inject an extra page when you need more not taking on a particular day.
Franklin calls it a Progressive Task list. I have personal goals at work and I usually write the summary of the personal goals on these tabs to kind of haunt me daily. It keeps them near the surface. Towards the end of last year I added a second progressive tab to write down ideas for goals for next year. Just another way to float ideas, goals etc. in your planner. (Things you don't want to re-write day after day as you forward tasks). - JIM
They are mostly sold online. I just ordered my 2018 planner, online at Franklincoveyfcorgp.com. Amazon sells them too but They are a little more expensive there. I think Target sells the refills (at least online).
I'm so sad that this is just a one time only video from you. I've watched it many times over the years and each time I watch it I find something new.
We are in 2021 at the moment of this comment and when I watch your video, this remember me how people hide themselves behind smartphone just to presume they are effective and efficient. My phone is always with me to get out of my head things while I'm in errand mode but there is nothing like a good old paper planner to be confronted to you and your thinking. I really love the way you passed throughout your process. I'm a bullet journal guy for the moment combined with Evernote, todoist and google calendar but I can't ignore the sexy aspect of the Franklin covey layout in the planning process. Thanks for sharing!
There's no reason you can't use this format in a bullet journal. The only thing Ryder Carroll doesn't do in the Bullet Journal system is prioritizing the tasks (which is easily added). 💖🌞🌵😷
Thanks Jim - this was a great “no-nonsense” video. I work in IT, and have a wealth of tools at my fingertips, however nothing works for keeping the zen as much as a paper planner! 👍🏻
Thank you for sharing...8 years ago. 😊 It's all still pertinent, maybe now more than ever with the increasing filler distractions in life.
I watch this video every couple of years for motivation. Seeing your video prompted me to get into the franklin planner after a promotion to the front office. It has served me well. I also grew up near Frankenmuth.
Year after year I always return to this video. Thank you thank you 🙏
I agree with you that digital is not the same. I tried ever since 2012, and from that point until this year when I returned to my handwritten planner, I've felt totally disconnected. I'm here watching your video to reacquaint myself with the Franklin planner system, the system I used when I was at my most productive. I have to say that ever since I returned to the system, I've felt so much more connected. It's funny how something so "old school" can make a person feel connected. I think the connection has to do with being able to take notes, write thoughts, plan, set goals, etc, and have everything in one place. As you've said, there's something about writing something by hand (and not keying in on a mobile device) that creates the connection. Even the app versions that claim to be like a Franklin have not been successful for me. I do believe that I'll always be manually writing.
A Renee Holmes muscles have memory......the brain is feeling your hand writing stuff....it's feeling emotions you have for certain tasks....all this vibrations are part of making marks on paper.
A Renee Holmes so how do we get a planner just like that one?
I think its because your mind is clear from any interruptions
Sorry for the delay in comment - wow - 2 years ago. I too feel more connected to my surroundings. It is easy to stray back to "floaties" but I always pull myself back to - all notes in one place. It is still a problem that I do not forward my tasks every day, but so what!! I do it at least 4 to 5 days each week. The perfect system though is review your tasks at the end of the day and start focusing on tomorrow & forward them appropriately. (sometimes a task might get pushed forward 5 days... - JIM
Hello,
Franklin Covey has earned a pretty penny from at least me, me due to YOUR UA-cam video. Word of mouth is often best form of advertisement. You are hopefully being compensated like other YUA-cam. Your video is the best demonstrated through and efficiently applicable...whereas other channels, great in their own way, have an overwhelming number of videos on the Franklin planner, designed towards generating views but too many videos is unnecessary and muddles the point.
......I posted after receiving my first planner.
My hubby bought me my first Franklin for Valentines Day 2021. I've loved planners since childhood. I had been fantasizing about Franklin Covey planners since seeing your video a few years ago but could never justify the price to myself. Finally, after repeatedly over spending on a Michael's craft knock off I got one. Since then, I've obsessed and bought the Stsphen Covey related books for myself and teen daughter. I recommend to everyone.
Great refresher for those who have been through the 7 habits course. I have been using the planner since the 90's this really was good.
After watching this video 2 years ago, I started using a FP, as Jim explains. I also watched the 3 FP videos too. ❤ my Franklin Planner! Keeps me on track with a fast paced and high volume job. Tried many other systems electronically and analog, only using the Franklin Planner as its designed has worked. I check my FP before I accept an electronic meeting invite, add the meeting in my FP. Everyday I check both my FP & outlook calendar to ensure both match. Use FP as it’s designed to use to get the most planning benefits.
This is the only system that has ever worked for me.
Thanks for this. You've just convinced me to go back to paper. I've tried all kinds of apps and never like any of them. This looks very good for me.
Thanks, Jim ❤❤❤ Your clear explanation appeals me so so much
I have watched this video so many times, great task management ideas. Thank you.
Resurrecting my Franklin Planner after many years (like Renee below, except longer) trying to go digital. So appreciate the tutorial to refresh my brain and remind me why I loved it so much.
Awesome!!!. I just come across your video accidentally but this will really organize my life better. Thank you for sharing.
I've watched this several times. Brings me back to my focus. I want to use it for personal and work.
Linda Belardes how’s it been working out for you?
Cool... I never thought about this being a go back and refresh course. BUT I EVEN need to remind myself to stay on the straight and narrow about being focused on "what matters most". You often get stuck in the dozens of trivial things that happen each day and realize... I didn't finish anything I wanted to today... Re-prioritizing is a constant process "between your ears".
Stumbled onto this video today and am so impressed. Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge!
Outstanding! Thank you for taking the time to share your very well honed system. Much Appreciated!
Great video Jim! Like you I started with the Day Timer planning system over 20 years ago (I also used Franklin Covey for a brief time but preferred Day Timers, it was my first 😊) and they provided similar productivity tips like the ones you shared which I continue to use till this day. Like some have mentioned in the comments, recently the focus in the planner community has shifted to 'pretty planning' which I'm afraid has distorted the true meaning of 'planning' for many so it's great to see real functional planning videos like yours popping up on UA-cam so please keep 'em comin'!
You are so right. Just got finished looking at some of those “pretty planning” videos. So glad I found this one.
pretty planning may not be planning it may just be prettying.
Lil Divette i appreciate a real planning video with out all the stickers and washi tape. Gets right to the point. I will use a sticker for a special occasion. I need to get on point because I waste a ton of time.
I've been using a Franklin planner since 1995 and swear by it. I've been using the Five Choices planner for several years now, but I am thinking about going back to the Original planner. Thanks for the refresher, along with real-life examples of use.
Very much appreciate your detailed Franklin planner walk-through. The computer connect is important but, as so many have pointed out, hardcopy is an anchor that can serve immediately and can include details.
It is. If you want to truly focus on what is important today (versus tomorrow) and save time by being able to refer quickly back to the details... a planner beats digital every time.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you said the digital calendars are just "too hidden." I was a faithful Franklin planner user for I would say 20 years, then the iPhone came out. In theory, the digital calendar with its alarms and notifications is great! But the practical application of a digital calendar loses something because it's not hands-on, and you can't see a year at a glance, a month at a glance, or even a day without clicking and opening up one item at a time. I think I am more of a visual person and that is why I need to see a month at a glance or a year at a glance and work from there. Clicking back-and-forth to take a peek just did not work for me.
Man, that Projects and numbered File System you have going on there was like a BINGO! moment. That is just the tip I need. Thank you very much for sharing it.
Jim, this was excellent! I’m returning to using a Franklin planner as of today (just ordered a new set of pages & binder this morning) after having put it aside for a number of years. Your video was a great refresher course! Ty
Excellent video! Love the Franklin planner! Truly if you use it the way it was meant to be used, as you described, nothing will fall through the cracks. In many of the videos now days, these people are using 4 or 5 planners. I don't know how they manage to do this without having a total catastrophe! Thanks!
Dodie Koehler right??!! I don’t get that either!
Thank you for teaching me the importance of a planner I can TRUST; having everything in ONE place, ONE planner. I saw this video years ago and I just finally got my Franklin Planner! At first, I could not justify the cost. I ended up spending more money on imitations but time management, tasks, etc were ALWAYS spread across MULTIPLE sections, not in ONE place for EACH day, leaving them unreliable. Before watching your video, I used phone, family calendar, and a planner.
Your video has got the best explanation for how to use the FC. Thank you!
you content is great please keep it up! Watching it in Dec 2022
Thank you so much for this practical and insightful video! You have truly helped me to get back to the basics of why I have a planner in the first place!
I agree with the benefits of writing things down, but take that planner and throw it off a bridge...unnerving at the very least. I know digital isnt the best, but I wont lose anything if my phone vanished. However, in keeping with the "write it down" idea, I do use a tablet and stylus. If you spend a little, you can get very nice electronic tools. E-Ink tablets use almost no battery and can give you all the connectivity benefits of electronics with the feel and mental connection of writing. If you toss it out of a plane, it is just a couple hundred dollars out of your pocket but all your information is saved and you can grab another one (backups are life) and sync it and be up and running in no time.
Ultimately, this video is well done and viable for any daily planning solutions.
Thank you Jim, for sharing your 25 years of wisdom. Me too have tried many different systems online, and ended up with the bullet journal (The original version, not the artistic version) as the planner is too big for me to carry around. the planner system is great for people who have a lot of tasks but I take notes way more than task managing. Many people who presented their planners made it so pretty that it is a total waste of time to follow. Great tips especially about the bucket and the rocks.
Thankyou Jim this was very good example of how to use a franklin planner.
+Cheri Stringer So Glad you enjoyed it Cheri! - Jim
I love this video so much. I keep on learning something every time I watch it. Thank you for posting this.
2:23 plan the important things first, the metaphor of big and little rocks
4:40 prio code: a must b want c would like.
Strike when done, put a point when task has begun.
Deal with interruption with notes sheets
Put less important task some days later when no time availible (with or without prio).
19:33 tab stays unless every task of the day is moved or done., Sona late tab means there is something to reprogram
21:33 index important notes of the month on the monthly index
I miss the Franklin system. Thank you for the refresher!
I miss my planner & items . Be careful of movers . Have to start over❤
Finally a planner video that is actually about planning and not just washi tape, stickers and yoga classes. Thanks for that. But I have to ask: You method(s) appear a little bit old fashioned (which is fine, if it works for you). GTD as method and BuJo as a syntax (it is not method) made thinks so much more universal and compatible with digital communication for me.
Super helpful video. Thank you 🌟♥️👍🏻
Please, do more planner videos. I love this one ! It´s my favourite. Thank you, Renata :)
Excellent review. Hope other people find this great video among all the other planner videos as it's a gem!
Thanks Jim, I bought a digital Franklin Planner for my iPad Pro. I have watched you video a couple of times and am using your technique to digital plan w/Apple Pencil. This helps a lot!
Just noticed the Frankenmuth before you said Frankenmuth. I miss visiting Frankenmuth, the chicken, the fudge/sweets, the sights and smells. I need to visit Michigan again very soon. Thanks for the happy memories and thanks for the assistance in learning to schedule better.
Your so welcome Justin. I am C.O.O. for Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth. I have eaten a lot of our chicken working here now for 41 years and in a Franklin Planner for over 30 years!
Thank you for this. I've never been able to apply fully a franklin planner to intended use. I'm going to go out an buy one and commit to it today.
Thank you for sharing your experience & wisdom!
Yes I agree with commentors. Please come back and do more videos like this. Very helpful!
I come from the gutter in life, I had a manager real asshole, but one thing he gave me was the emphasis on planning your day. He came from a college background and I can see where it helped him with organization. So this is one thing I can take from him, people come into your life for a reason. We worked in the construction field (sales) you can look at someone who is successful and what are the building blocks to success. Organization should be number one.
Wonderful video and you made it very easy to understand. I will be using this concept
Thanks Thanks - Best aid to use the franklin covey planner
Like watching this every once in while. Too difficult to use when you are busy (use todoist) but I miss the old school simple way of getting things done.
I have swayed in and out a little bit but each time I COMMIT to it, I feel more in control. When the number of tasks seem insurmountable, I meet with MY BOSS - who owns the company and ask her to re-clairfy my priorities. Sometimes we end up eliminating some of the things that seemed important 2 weeks ago and no are NOT!
Great Video! I never used a planner because it was never clear enough or easy to use. I just got a job as a field service technician and it requires appointments and tracking expenses and so on. I was given this planner and I'm going to get try and stick to it. Your system is pretty good.
Good Luck Luis! Only have ONE calendar in your life for all things. Let your spouse or significant other drop items into it too. You could have them note things in the monthly page at the beginning of each month or onto the appropriate pages. It is great to look at one place for everything. You can actually buy expense report pages or if you have a copier that shrinks, you can shrink to fit in the planner. - JIM
Awesome. Congrats on the new job. Break big projects into smaller parts and they will be more manageable. You will easily get distracted and stop using it for a day (or two or five). Don't give up - catch up the tasks from the past and get right back in the saddle!!! Good Luck!
YESSIR ❗ I'm paying attention to you ❗ Waiting for my Classic to arrive 💮
How is it going... stick to it!!!!
My best Planner Franklin Planner......is the Best....
I wish you would do more planner videos. Hope to see you back here soon :)
Just got an idea for another video. Will add it to my task list!!!
Very good video that showed very good principles. That said I hope you switched to digital by now. Nowadays they are so intuitive & time-saving
The franklin planner sounds like the bullet journal system! Loved this video! Thank you!
Jennifer Jacinto there are similarities but also key differences. For one thing, FC facilitates future planning better
Please come back and do more videos. I'd like to know if you are still using your Franklin or if you have found another solution. Great video/tutorial.
Thanks for the compliment Matt. I am working on some priorities for shorter videos on specific niche ideas on getting organized with so many things to do. Standby!!
Probably the best video I have seen on how to use your planner in your professional career. Please come back and do more videos. :-)
Such a great review! Loved your setup and thank you for sharing this.
Hello Jim
Great Video on using Franklin Planner ,
Question for you
How’s it best to plan Weekly
Is it best to , list all of Tasks , Big Rocks , roles , Appointments/ events , etc
Then schedule the week ?
How’s it best to plan each day ?
Do you by chance , still have The Time Quest Workbook ? A PDF Copy
When you took the original course ?
Thank you Jim .
Thank you so much for that amazing information! I love my Franklin Covey planner and was trying to figure out how to simplify it but still add everything I want for planning and tracking. This was perfect. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing. Very helpful
Completely different from all the current planner videos where they have like 2-4 planners to track things in. I used to love my FC planners before it got so hard to find the refills for them.
👍I recently donated mine to a Goodwill location because I started relying on my digital device. It was a beautiful black leather. I’m kinda regretting it now but I hope someone makes good use of it. 💞
YOU TOO may come back someday! I have tried tasks in outlook and they just don't work the same for me. I love tkaing notes on the daily pages and that I can reference back to them over the next week or two and I don't have some stack on my desk haunting me to have to look thru!
I have a planner like the one you purchased at Goodwill. It is functional, but the leather is dry and I have one million bits of burgundy leather all over my papers. The planner is at least 11 years old, but I will try to treat it with some kind of leather oil.
Wow... someday you should treat your self to a new one or a new-used one. Nice ones often pop up on ebay!
Thank you! Wonderful and informative. I really wish I had seen this earlier in the year. I am debating if I will be able to use this system efficiently as a newbie. I will revisit this system before the new year starts. The explanation of the note side and references was so helpful. Thank you again!
Thank you for this detailed video. I just received my first Franklin Planner and the starter kit gives you a quick & dirty explanation of how to use the planner but doesn't go into nearly as much detail as you've done.
I like your system. Thanks for sharing.
I used the Franklin planner for a few years, sadly the pages are hard to get in Australia now.
thank you jim, my hubby jaque loves your system
Do you by any chance have any of the original Franklin Planner pages? I began with them and always preferred that system to the Covey system and would love to be reminded what the originals looked like, in case there is anything I want to re-incorporate. Thanks!
Great perspective. Love the idea.
Fantastic video. So helpful. Thanks!
Great video. Thank you for all the tips!
Best video ever can you do more.
I just decided that I WILL. Standby!
I first watched months ago to get started and now I'm rewatching to pick up more tips. I would like to know more about your file system (f6). I have 2 outlook calendars. I am an elected official. I have 2 outlook calendars; 1 personal and 1 city commitments. I use my Franklin planner daily calander as a block time calander. For example, house tasks, errands, desk work, meetings, projects. My outlook calander is for more specific information. Thanks for the great information
Wow... tough having two calendars. BUT I see why you did it. I am not sure if you can make two calendars viewable on teh same screen at the same time to minimize duplicate data. But that would be helpful (as opposed to toggling back and forth). I still use one calendar for everything. That is the Franklin Covey way. It is a cardinal sin in their approach to have two calendars. Still get it for you though. Especially if you have to share the Government one with co-workers in the office. But I love the notes being in the planner. I carry spare blank lined sheets and add a second page to the day if I have a lot of notes. I only add maybe 5 or so a month though. But it is all quick at hand. Not on a yellow lined tablet. I haven't used a yellow tablet of paper in 20 years... or more!
The problem I have found with the prioritization column - especially assigning priorities in advance - is that my work environment is fast-paced and priorities shift quickly and frequently. If I set priorities the night before and check my email the next morning to see that my boss has assigned 3-5 new tasks to me, that often blows up my plan. So for me, it’s just easier to bullet point tasks and keep track of their status using the status tracker on the left. I can pretty much eyeball my list and know priorities. Or.... I suppose a moveable “master tasks” list can be kept underneath the pagefinder/bookmark, with slits cut into the holes for easier movement between pages. Then limit the daily task list to the few items you plan to tackle that day.
This entire dilemma speaks to the fact that the FC system was created prior to the digital age, with email, shared digital calendars, etc, which drastically increased the pace of life and work.
Good Point YOU... I use blank lined pages sometimes when I have fast paced changes and "float the page forward with each day. I often can have 12 tasks on a day and only get to 2 of them. The bigger project ones tend to be easier to write on a blank planner page that I float forward for a while instead of re-writing them. But the Franklin Planner idea is that you do "what matters most" today. If that TRULY is your bosses tasks - then so-be-it. But it makes sense to clarify with them if those tasks take a higher priority over the other tasks at hand. Communication can reclarify priorities the BEST. It this case... verbal would be best - not email.
The best !!!!!!!
In your Outlook calendar why don’t you colour code your events so that you can see at a glance what events are related to your assistant, your wife, and your family? I find that really helpful in my outlook (for work)? I use a Google calendar for family (very busy teenagers - work, school, competitive athletes). Each person uses a different colour and everyone has access to the calendar on their mobile. At a glance we can see who is where and when. This system with my planner (which only I have access to) keeps us all on track.
Jim, would you share your method to prioritize tasks?
Hi Jim! If I had seen this video when I first purchased my planner in the '90s, I would have been way ahead of the game! In just 25 minutes, you explained this very well!
I was doing a search on the Franklin planner, and I ran across your tutorial. Your video cemented the ideas I read in the book, "Time Management Magic," by Lee Cockerell. It's similar to what you share. But for me, it's more powerful seeing how you would use the Franklin Planner. THANK YOU!
Question: How would you handle delegation? In other words, how would you know when to follow up with the person you delegated the task? And, how do you notate their response if they are still working on the task?
When I delegate a task I make a note of the details on the right hand page and the expected deadline. Follow up depends on the person or the task... But when I setup the project I have a good idea when to follow, let's say in this example: in one week from today. So I turn to that page and write on the left hand page "follow up on project ____ see 7/1/22 for notes". If she finishes early, I make a note of our conversation on that day's page and I cross off the task to follow up in the future. If, not... I follow up in one week and write the status on the notes page. If another follow up is needed I turn to that future page and enter another task. ... Think of this planner as not only a calendar, but a sort of diary to keep track of the status of things and conversations (whether telephone or in person ... You could even notate correspondence... Received John's confirmation and a check today). 💖🌞🌵😷
@@suzisaintjames Genius! You made this very easy to understand! The explanation was great, but for me the example was Gold! I always understand a lot better with examples, and this example clicked immediately in my mind. I'm incorporating this idea.
Even though this video Jim made close to seven years ago, I still find it very valuable. Each reply in this video (plus the video) has created a better understanding for me. Although I still use my Google Calendar for my business I use my Day-Timer daily for tasks, notes, follow-ups, and appointments. Paper and pen (or pencil) give me a feeling that I won't forget any future tasks or appointments.
By the way, I use the Two Page Per Day Wirebound 3" X 5" and I love it! www.daytimer.com/p/planners-calendars-organizers/planner-organizer-refills/daily-planner-organizer-refills/2023-two-page-per-day-original-planner-refill-compact-size-960102301/
My 2023 Jan-Dec is ordered and will be arriving this week.
Thank you again for replying and sharing your method on following up. ~ Alex
I have a problem with digital planning and task management so I found this very helpful.
What are "floaties"?
He explains it in the video description box above.
Thanks
I miss my Franklin Covey system. It really was the best I've used; but now it's so hard to get filler pages now that I live in Europe... and they're stupidly expensive.
Zed Nine what about Amazon?
Great video! Very informative.
Do you print out Outlook calendar days and put them into your planner? I had a boss that did that for busy days, but as I have a lot of shared calendars, this is driving me nuts.
EXCELLENT video!!!
+SC Nurse I originally produced the video to share with the Managers and Supervisors in my Company. I knew that many of them would not be at my general session so I did the video so it would be viewable by the other 15 people missing. What a shock to see it has had 1,473 views in two months! Best wishes in being more organized... it is a never ending endeavor!
+Jim Engel There is a HUGe planning community in fb, UA-cam, and Instagram. Unfortunately for some of us, the focus is on "pretty planning", not functional planning. So whenever there is quality content such as yours, it is definitely shared! Hope you upload more planning topics. Thanks again for sharing!
+SC Nurse Very interesting. Which media type does it best? FB, Instagram or UA-cam?
Jim Engel Are you going to do a video on the planner guide of the Franklin Covey planner? Especially he Values/Mission and Goals sections.
Is there a CD/DVD that teaches the "how to use" Franklin Planner?
In the early days there was. But I must say, I don't think we have one in our work library...
Jim, this is a great video! I have a few questions. Let's say you have a random task that you know you'll do at some point, but not sure when. Where do you list that in your system?
Also, let's say you sit down to have a brainstorm for a project--do you just use your notes page or do you use a separate paper that would slide in between your two daily pages?
GG
+thegoatgirlcr Great Questions!
Random Tasks - I suggest you post the task on the first date you think it is potentially possible you will work on it. If that day comes and you cannot do it, you choose a future date AGAIN. then place an arrow in front of the task today. I currently have a task I want to do but I have forwarded it for 4 months now. But... it didn't slip thru the cracks!!
For special projects over a number of hours, my first choice is to use additional lined pages for all my notes. I place stars in front of each actionable thing that I write in the notes. I plot out the actionable items onto appropriate days into the future. I keep the notes on the day of the session. Behind each task written in the future I place the date the notes are recorded under so I can reference back for more detail if I forget what to do.
I DO NOT USE POST IT NOTES. They eventually will fall out of your planner. They are evil and should only be used to write notes to others. Don't use them for your own tasks! Thanks GG!!
Some of us also use an area called "brain dump." Whether it's a sheet of paper, a whole section, or even just a (gasp!) post it note, the concept is to have a dedicated space to quickly jot whatever is on your mind. From there you can place each task/idea wherever it would naturally live in your system. There is also a running master task list where every task goes. The beauty of binder and disc systems is that running to do list can get moved from week to week (or day to day).
+Jim Engel I understand now. Do you also have a section in your planner where you track specific or ongoing projects with project notes?
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions!
+SC Nurse Great idea! So, I want to make sure I understand: you have an entire section for master tasks that you look through during your daily or weekly overview to plan on getting them accomplished?
+thegoatgirlcr For most projects I do not have a special tab. I used to have numbered tabs in the back and used each tab for special projects. Now I use F-files. I mentioned them in the video. I have 20 hanging file folders in my desk drawer (closer at hand then the file cabinet) They are simply numbered 1 thru 20. When I have a special project, I take the folder to all meetings on that subject or pull it when on the phone. Any reference of work to do then has a (F-20) written behind the task and the data resides inside file 20. I find that a tabbed area isn't enough because of handouts or notes from others sent to me.
just oicked up an Original for 3 bucks at thrift shoppellcan't wait to use it ...and use it right@ thanks!
I would love to know if your still using franklin covey ?
Amazing!
Thanks Jim. Very helpful overview & tutorial.
how is your planning system now? still the same?
I need to come back to this page more often... I apologize for the delay! STILL THE SAME. I am noting some side things I do to get more organized with projects and tasks to stay on top of things. SO I hope to do some other smaller videos shortly! Standby!
Ive used Franklin Planner (since before it was Franklin Quest... how
scary is that?) off and on for a number of years, but because most of my
days arent packed with activity I stopped using the dated fillers and
just used the lined paper and tabs. I was mostly notes every day when I
did use the dated ones. I now just transfer forward what I need to until
whatever it is is completed.
For work I rely exclusively on Outlook. Its kinda scary if it crashed and dumped everything, I would be in SO much trouble. I send myself emails with a reminder attached when I have a lot to remember for that day.
I prefer the Classic size, but it is difficult to carry around: too big, too heavy. Solution?
The big one is the Monarch. I suggest going to the Classic (5.5" X 8.5") and buy extra lined pages. You can inject an extra page when you need more not taking on a particular day.
いい手帳！
What size Franklin Covey planner (inches x inches)are you using in the video?
+badgrfan I was wondering the same thing. My best guess would be an A5.
It looks like 8.5" X 5.5". I think it's called Classic.
The classic most likely, the paper is 5.5" x 8.5". If it were the compact it would be 6 hole punched instead.
do u still work in that company ?
What is the list with the ruler about....’Speed ....task’!?
Franklin calls it a Progressive Task list. I have personal goals at work and I usually write the summary of the personal goals on these tabs to kind of haunt me daily. It keeps them near the surface. Towards the end of last year I added a second progressive tab to write down ideas for goals for next year. Just another way to float ideas, goals etc. in your planner. (Things you don't want to re-write day after day as you forward tasks). - JIM
Good morning. It’s getting harder for me to find these planners.
They are mostly sold online. I just ordered my 2018 planner, online at Franklincoveyfcorgp.com. Amazon sells them too but They are a little more expensive there. I think Target sells the refills (at least online).
Thank you
J L Murray you are welcome:-)
The link did not work. Here is the right one. franklinplanner.fcorgp.com/store/