Being a teacher requires some type a lot of organization. I find that when I am not organized, my whole day is thrown off (a little OCD much?). However, between teaching full time, blogging on this site and being a wife to my sweet husband, I find that I easily forget the things I don’t write down. I’m no expert in this area (by any means) but I have found a few things that actually work for me to stay on track. Below you will see my tips on how I get things done at work & home and little things that help me stay organized from day to day.
The List- Now, I am totally the type of person who has to write everything down. I get some kind of satisfaction from writing and crossing items off my list when completed. Any one else out there? But I once was told that sometimes, you just need to do rather than waste time thinking about my next move. For instance, make a mental list and start taking action before having to write it all down. I’ve noticed that when I wake up with a mental “to-do list” I am far more motivated and successful at getting things done than actually planning each step. There’s something to be said about the list, but sometimes, you just gotta go and GSD.
3-5 Goals- Weather I write a list or not, I do like to set some goals for the day. This keeps me motivated and on the right track to finishing important tasks. I limit it to 3-5 tasks simply because more can feel overwhelming. I have to remind myself that I want my goals to be manageable and realistic.
The Calendar- To write or type? For me, I love to write everything down. Each year I get excited to pick out new planners like this one from Kate Spade or this version from Graphic Image. However, there have been numerous times when I need to “check my schedule” and oops, left my planner at home! This is when my husband usually pushes me to go digital. I haven’t made the switch yet, but my goal is to eventually have everything on my Google Calendar and on my iPhone. Going digital is nice because you can sync your calendar with others and if you always have your phone on hand, then so is your calendar.
A Small Zipper Pouch- My little Gigi New York Zipper p\Pouch is the one things that keeps my purse from being a complete mess. It’s the perfect companion for my business cards, lipgloss (Chanel in Seashell) and even jewelry, like my favorite Kendra Scott Earrings and Reece Blaire Bangles. This is perfect to throw in your bag and go, all while keeping your accessories together and organized. I use this daily!
The Teacher Anchor- To all my teacher friends, you need to head on over and check out C. Jayne Teach. This gal is amazing and sure knows how to make it easy for teachers to stay organized. You may remember my post last year about her products, but The Teacher Anchor is a tool that I use daily when writing my schedule, lesson plans, or anecdotal notes. I also love that it has a spot for substitute plans and parent information. Chandra thought of everything when creating The Teacher Anchor and I love having all this information in one place. This is a must for keeping an organized classroom and happy teacher!
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Alex says
Thank you so much for this! I am a new teacher and am definitely struggling in keeping things organized! I’m going to check the Teacher Anchor out!
-Alex of http://snippetswithalex.com
Ashley Robertson says
Thanks Alex! I think you will find the Teacher Anchor very helpful and informative! Xo
Sophie Collins says
Great tips! I’ve tried to go “digital” myself and I agree, it’s hard but I’ve really enjoyed being able to share my calendar and always know what’s going on. Keep trying it because I think you will really like it and find that it’s way more convienievt than writing everything down.
Rebecca @ Hello Creative Blog says
I’m a HUGE fan of writing everything down. I’ve just found that keeping tabs on life is a little easier on my phone. I can keep notes and calendar appointments, make lists…there are some great apps out there for lists (like Evernote or Google Keep). I still do a written list though for quick things. Marking it off, digital or by pen, CHECK!
Ashley Robertson says
Oh that’s a great idea! I will check out Evernote! Thanks!! Xo
Kelly says
Thanks for sharing! I use the Erin Condren planner and love it. It comes with cute stickers too!
Buffy says
I love this post. I am so OCD and my purse is always driving me crazy. Last night my husband asked me what I wanted for our 3rd anniversary and I could not think of anything (reasonable) off the cuff. I love the idea of the Gigi NewYork Pouch especially since the 3rd year is tradtionally a gift in leather. Thanks a bunch.
Diane says
Hi, I am loving your blog and just received my Teacher Anchor. 🙂 Since you also teach in Texas, I was wondering if you replace the Common Core Standards with the TEKS or how you use the back of it. I love everything else about it, but just want to make it work the best for me. Any advice would be great, thanks!
Ashley Robertson says
Hi Diane!! Thanks so much for reading and following along. I hope you are enjoying your summer! I replaced the CCSS and printed out the TEKS! I took them to Kinkos and had them replace the CCSS for the TX standards. They do it for free. Hope that helps! XX
Diane says
For free?! That’s awesome! Thank you so much for responding!!