Playing it Straight

photo credit: the_vampire_hanna

When we feel out of balance, it’s usually because we can’t keep things straight – our priorities, our calendar, our free time. So, what are we to do if we’re really trying our best to keep work and life balanced?

There’s no shortage of systems and methods out there for planning, prioritizing and predicting. Here’s a quick list (although admittedly not comprehensive) of some methods that may help:

• Getting Things Done – The gold standard in workflow and information management. Many folks swear by David Allen’s system.
• Old-fashioned pad and pen – Whether it’s a Moleskine or a steno pad, many people still like to write down what needs doing and scratch it off when it’s done.
• Day Grid Balancer – A simple checklist that allows for prioritization, this free download sample can help you set priorities.
• Assorted to do lists – Whether you use your inbox to manage tasks or an iPhone app that helps you remember what needs doing, handy add ons and services like Remember the Milk can keep things straight for you.

What do you use to keep things straight? In a world where so much needs doing and it can be so easy to get bogged down by both the mundane and the ultimate, share with us how you keep up with it all.