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Schedule Your Priorities: How to Take Back Control of Your Time

Gary Fretwell — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 13:23:18 +0000

Some quotes hit you like a lightning bolt. This one from Stephen Covey has stuck with me for decades:

“The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”

At first glance, it’s clever. But sit with it a while, and it becomes a deeply personal challenge—especially in a world where our calendars are jammed with meetings, errands, emails, and to-dos. Too often, we spend our energy reacting instead of leading our lives with intention.

I’ve spent most of my career in productivity, psychology, and personal development—and I’ve worked with hundreds of high-achieving professionals who are often over-scheduled and under-aligned. So let me offer a few practical ways to help you make this quote a reality—not just an inspirational line you post on your wall.

Start with What Matters Most to You (Not What’s Loudest)

We’re trained to answer emails, return calls, and cross off quick tasks because they make us feel productive. But being busy isn’t the same as being intentional.

Instead, ask yourself:

What do I want to be true at the end of this week?

Or even more powerfully:

If I could only accomplish three meaningful things this month, what would they be?

Those answers—whether they involve deepening a relationship, working on your health, making progress on a creative project, or simply getting a good night’s sleep—are your real priorities. They deserve space on your calendar before anything else.

Reverse the Default: Put Priorities on the Calendar First

One of the most practical shifts I ever made was this:

I stopped letting my calendar get filled by others and started using it to claim time for what I cared about.

Here’s how:

Block time for your top 2–3 weekly priorities before anything else. Literally schedule them—writing time, workouts, calls with loved ones, project focus time, reflection, or spiritual practice.

Treat these blocks as sacred. If a meeting gets scheduled over it, reschedule the meeting—not your priority.

Use color coding or labels to track which blocks are for your core values. That way, when you review your week, you can see whether your time is aligned with what matters.

This isn’t about rigidity. It’s about reclaiming ownership of your time.

Build a Weekly Review Ritual

Every Sunday evening (or Monday morning), I do a quick personal check-in:

What mattered most last week—and did I make time for it?

What’s coming up this week that could distract or derail me?

What do I want to have accomplished, experienced, or moved forward by next weekend?

Then I open my calendar and block time accordingly. I call it my “alignment meeting with myself.” Just 15–20 minutes can recalibrate your entire week.

Beware of the Tyranny of the Urgent

Urgent things scream. Important things whisper.

If you don’t actively protect time for what matters, your day will fill with other people’s priorities, noise, and requests that feel pressing but leave you feeling hollow.

Covey’s quote is an antidote to this cycle. It reminds us that our schedules shouldn’t be a reaction to external forces—they should reflect our inner values.

Practical Tools That Help

You don’t need a fancy system, but these simple tools can make the process easier:

A paper journal or digital note where you list your top 3–5 personal or professional priorities weekly.

A calendar app with recurring blocks for things like creative time, exercise, deep work, or time with family.

OmniFocus, Notion, or Todoist (if you use task systems) with tags for “priority” to make filtering easier.

A weekly “checkpoint” alarm on your phone labeled: “Are you scheduling your priorities—or just surviving your calendar?”

Make It Personal—Start Small

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being more honest.

For me, scheduling time for writing each morning has become non-negotiable. So has weekly time with my wife and walks with my golden retrievers. Those moments aren’t luxuries. They’re my life. And when I protect them, everything else feels more grounded.

Ask yourself today:

What’s one thing I deeply care about that hasn’t been on my calendar lately?

How can I give it even 30 minutes this week?

What can I say no to in order to say yes to that?

That’s how it begins—not with a massive overhaul, but with a single act of alignment.

Let Your Schedule Reflect Your Soul

Stephen Covey was right. Productivity isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most. Don’t let your life become a patchwork of obligations. Use your calendar to paint a picture of your values, your vision, and your voice.

Because in the end, your priorities won’t happen by accident. They only happen by appointment.

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Doing Better Things: The Simple Shift That Drives Big Results

Gary Fretwell — Sat, 24 May 2025 15:34:33 +0000

“Doing better things drives better results.” — James Clear

You know, every now and then a quote hits you in the gut—in the best way. This one from James Clear stopped me in my tracks. It’s simple, but it says so much. We’re often told to do more, hustle harder, or push through. But what if the key isn’t doing more things—it’s doing better things?

That one shift in mindset can change everything.

I’ve seen this time and again in my own life and in the lives of those I coach. Productivity isn’t just about filling your calendar. It’s about filling it with the right things—the ones that actually move you forward, bring joy, or make a difference.

So, how do we do that? Let’s talk about five practical ways you can start doing better things today—no complicated system, just real, doable steps.

1. Identify What Actually Moves the Needle

Not everything on your to-do list deserves your attention. Take a moment and ask: What’s the one thing I could do today that would make everything else easier or unnecessary?

That’s a better thing.

Whether it’s a key phone call, focused work on a meaningful project, or even rest that helps you recharge—it’s the high-impact work that matters most.

2. Schedule with Purpose, Not Pressure

Instead of trying to cram more into your day, try this: schedule the right things first. If it’s important—your health, your writing, your relationships—put it on the calendar. Don’t leave it for “when you have time.”

Doing better things means giving them priority, not leftovers.

3. Replace the Good with the Great

Here’s a little challenge: for one week, replace a “good” habit with a “great” one.

Example: Instead of scrolling social media for 15 minutes, read something that uplifts you or gives you a new idea. Swap a passive evening for a walk with a friend. Tiny upgrades add up to big wins.

4. Track What Matters, Not Just What’s Easy

It’s easy to track the visible stuff—emails sent, meetings attended, boxes checked. But doing better things means tracking what truly matters.

Did you have a meaningful conversation today? Make progress on a long-term goal? Invest in your well-being?

Better inputs create better outputs. Measure what matters.

5. Ask Yourself This Simple Question Daily

Before wrapping up your day, ask: Did I do better things today? Not more things. Not harder things. Better things.

You’ll be surprised at how quickly your days feel more meaningful and your results more aligned with what really matters.

Final Thought: Shift the Focus, See the Change

James Clear nailed it: “Doing better things drives better results.” It’s not about being busier. It’s about being more intentional.

I’ve learned that when we stop trying to be efficient with everything, we start becoming effective with the right things. That’s when life begins to align with our values, our goals, and our joy.

So here’s your invitation: What’s one better thing you can do today?

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Busyness Isn’t the Same as Productive

Gary Fretwell — Fri, 16 May 2025 13:13:20 +0000

You ever stumble on a quote that stops you in your tracks?

Here’s one that did it for me:

“Being busy doesn’t necessarily mean we’re being productive.”

— Ryder Carroll, The Bullet Journal Method

I wish I had read that about 40 years ago. It would’ve saved me a lot of unnecessary motion.

For a long time, I wore my busyness like a badge of honor. Full calendar. Long hours. Back-to-back meetings. You name it—I was doing it. But here’s the truth: not all movement is forward movement.

We confuse activity with progress.

I certainly did.

There’s something comforting about staying in motion. Being busy is so seductive, it makes us feel like we are on a roll and getting things done. But many times, I was just reacting—chasing the urgent instead of focusing on the important. I wasn’t designing my time. I was drifting through it.

Eventually, I learned to stop and ask myself a better question:

“What am I actually trying to accomplish?”

It’s such a simple question, but it’s powerful. Because when you pause long enough to answer it, you realize how much energy is being spent on things that don’t really matter. I’m not talking about dropping responsibilities. I’m talking about aligning them with purpose.

Being mindful matters.

Before jumping into the next task, ask: Is this helping me move the needle?

Am I doing this out of habit—or intention? Those pauses have become sacred space for me. I now block time to think. Reflect. Recalibrate.

And you know what? I get more done, not less.

Because when you stop trying to do everything, you finally have room to do the right things.

I’ve also learned this: the most productive people I know aren’t the busiest. They’re the clearest.

- Clear on what matters.

- Clear on where they’re going.
- Clear on when to say no.

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, take it from someone who learned the hard way:

Busy doesn’t mean better.

It doesn’t mean progress. And it certainly doesn’t mean peace.

You have permission to slow down.

To focus.

To be intentional.

I still love a good to-do list. I still keep a full calendar. But now I make sure that what’s on it matters.That’s the shift.

Pause. Reflect. Prioritize.

It’s the difference between a life that’s full and a life that’s fulfilled.

So here’s your gentle reminder today:

Don’t just be busy.

Be purposeful.

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Don’t Put It Off, Put It First: The Power of Scheduling with Purpose

Gary Fretwell — Sat, 10 May 2025 13:52:23 +0000

📅 “Scheduling: Don’t put it off, put it first. Our attention span drains throughout the day. When we do something has a large impact on how well we do it. If there’s something you find yourself putting off, then you’ve identified your chore.”

Let me be honest—I’ve had days where I’ve looked at a to-do list, then “accidentally” checked my email for the fifth time before even starting the first item. Sound familiar?

This quote cuts through the noise with striking clarity. It’s not just about time management. It’s about energy management—and knowing when you’re at your best.

Our brains are like phone batteries. They start the day with a full charge, but every decision, distraction, and delay drains that charge. If you wait to tackle your most dreaded or important task until 3 p.m., chances are you’ll procrastinate again… or do it poorly.

That’s why the advice “don’t put it off, put it first” is golden. When you identify the thing you avoid most—that’s not just your chore, it’s your signal. That task holds weight, and giving it your freshest attention gives you the best chance of doing it well.

5 Practical Ways to Apply This in Daily Life

1. Schedule Your “Frog” FirstBrian Tracy called it “eating the frog”—doing the hardest thing first. Each night, identify one task you’re tempted to delay and put it in your calendar for the next morning. Protect that time like it’s a meeting with your future success.
2. Know Your Peak Energy Window Are you sharpest at 8 a.m. or 10 a.m.? For most people, the first few hours of the day are gold. Use that window for deep, focused work—not email or admin tasks.
3. Use a Trigger Ritual For me, it’s coffee, a short walk with my dogs, and 15 minutes of journaling. That signals my brain: “It’s go time.” Find your own ritual to shift into productive mode.
4. Set a 20-Minute Timer If a task feels too big, start with just 20 minutes. More often than not, once you begin, momentum kicks in and you’ll go beyond it.
5. Track Your WinsEach day you do the thing you wanted to avoid, write it down. It’s powerful to see a streak of action—it builds confidence and helps you trust yourself again.

One Final Thought

If you’ve put something off lately, ask yourself: What am I waiting for? You don’t need more time—you need to prioritize it earlier.

Remember: scheduling isn’t just about fitting things into your day. It’s about choosing what matters before your energy and willpower are gone.

Start tomorrow by putting your #1 task first—and watch how much better the rest of your day flows.

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The Power of Pen and Paper: Start Creating Without Distraction

Gary Fretwell — Fri, 09 May 2025 14:04:52 +0000

While reading “Mind Management, Not Time Management”, I read a quote that really resonated with me. He stated, “By contrast, a notebook and pen is a very grippy tool for writing. Once you start writing in a notebook, there’s no way for the notebook to distract you.” — David Kadavy. This is really something I have found helpful. I have started, again, using a Bullet Journal and I have found it resonated with me very deeply.

In a world of endless pings, pop-ups, and digital noise, David Kadavy offers a powerful reminder: sometimes the most productive tool isn’t a sleek app—it’s a simple notebook.

When you pick up a pen and write on paper, something shifts. There are no notifications, no tabs, no tempting rabbit holes. Just your thoughts, your hand, and a blank page. It’s grounding. It’s real. And best of all—it’s grippy. Once you’re writing, you’re in it. No swiping away.

So how do you begin to make the switch? Here are five ways to bring the magic of handwritten focus into your creative process:

1. Start your day with a Morning Page
  Before you touch your phone, write one page by hand. Let it be messy. Let it wander. It clears the mental clutter and sets a tone of intentionality.

1. Use a “thinking notebook”
  Keep one small notebook that lives on your desk, in your bag, or by your bed. Use it only for ideas, sketches, or questions you want to explore—offline and unfiltered.

1. Designate a Daily 10-Minute Freewrite
  Pick a consistent time—before lunch, after your walk, or before winding down at night—and write non-stop for 10 minutes. No goal, no judgment. Just flow.

1. Disconnect to reconnect
  When you’re stuck creatively, grab your notebook and step away from screens. Go to a park, a quiet café, or just your backyard. Let your thoughts land without the static of tech.

1. Make your tools sacred
  Choose a pen you enjoy holding. A notebook that feels good in your hand. This is your space. Treat it like a trusted companion, not just office supply.

Writing by hand isn’t just nostalgic—it’s productive, freeing, and deeply human. And unlike your phone, your notebook won’t ask you to update it.

So open a page. Start a sentence. Stay with it.

The only thing standing between you and your next big idea might just be a pen.

Always Have a Notepad: The Key to Capturing Joyful Moments!**

Gary Fretwell — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 16:09:34 +0000

It’s easy to let precious thoughts and ideas slip through our fingers like sand. This is where the magic of a notepad comes in! Keeping a notepad handy is not just for jotting down grocery lists or meeting notes; it’s a simple but great tool for capturing those fleeting moments of inspiration, joy, and creativity.

Imagine: You’re sipping your morning coffee, and suddenly, a brilliant idea for your next project strikes you. If you have a notepad nearby, you can quickly jot it down! Or perhaps you overhear a conversation that sparks a memory or a funny story—write it down! These moments add joy and richness to our lives; a notepad is your best friend in preserving them.

Plus, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about putting pen to paper. It invites you to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of your thoughts. Whether you’re doodling, making lists, or journaling, a notepad can be a canvas for your imagination.

So, embrace the habit of always having a notepad at hand. You’ll be amazed at how it can transform your daily routine into a treasure trove of ideas and joyful moments. Let the ink flow, and watch your thoughts bloom into something beautiful! Who knows what delightful discoveries await you on those blank pages?

Happy writing! ✍️✨

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The Unseen Impact of Our Words: A Lesson from Bobby

Gary Fretwell — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 13:23:48 +0000

Recently, I received a heartfelt message from my nephew, Bobby. He reached out to share how much my writing meant to him. As a writer, I often delve into the nuances of human emotions and connections. That is part of my training in psychology and a keen interest in human development. It was a different experience to hear directly from someone touched by my words.

Bobby told me that my writing inspired him and gave him a sense of connection. He said he read my posts daily. I loved that.

In a world that often feels fragmented, he found solace in knowing someone else perceived life through a similar lens. This reaffirmation struck a chord with me. It’s easy to underestimate the power of our written or spoken expressions. We might think our thoughts and reflections are just personal musings, but they can resonate profoundly with others.

This experience has reminded me of the importance of sharing our stories and insights. As we navigate our lives, we often forget that our experiences can light the way for someone else. Bobby’s acknowledgment was a poignant reminder that every piece of writing and shared thought has the potential to inspire, uplift, or even comfort someone struggling with their own feelings.

In a time when many feel isolated or unheard, we must continue to contribute to the world around us. Our words can serve as bridges, connecting us in ways we may never fully understand. So, remember that your voice matters whether you’re a writer, a speaker, or simply someone who shares their thoughts with friends. Thanks to Bobby, I’ve been reminded of the ripple effect our words can create. Let’s keep putting positivity and inspiration into the world; you never know who needs to hear it.

Thank you, Bobby, for reminding me of the lesson of sharing and its impact.

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Do You Have a “Commonplace” Book?

Gary Fretwell — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 14:33:59 +0000

“All the noise in my brain. I clamp it to the page so it will be still.”— Barbara Kingsolver

Let’s dive into the delightful world of “common place” books. Now, I know what you’re thinking—what in the world is that? Grab a comfy seat, and let’s explore this charming concept together!

A commonplace book is a personal treasure chest for quotes, ideas, musings, and snippets of wisdom that resonate with you. Think of it as your little sanctuary for inspiration, a scrapbook for your thoughts! The roots of this practice date back centuries, with writers, philosophers, and thinkers keeping these books to compile knowledge and creativity. You’re not just jotting down notes; you’re curating a unique collection of what inspires you!

Let me tell you, the joy of flipping through my commonplace book is like opening a box of chocolates—each page holds something sweet. I’ve filled mine with quotes that made me laugh, poems that tug at my heart, and passages from books that opened my mind. There’s something magical about having all these nuggets of wisdom in one place. It’s like conversing with my past self, reminding me of the things that once sparked joy or contemplation.

You might be wondering how to start your commonplace book. It’s simpler than you think! First, grab a notebook or a digital app—whatever tickles your fancy. Don’t stress about formatting or organization; this is YOUR book, and it can be as chaotic or as structured as you like. Just start adding snippets that catch your eye. It could be a quote from a book you loved, a line from a song that resonates, or even a thought that pops into your head while sipping your morning coffee.

One of the best parts? You can personalize it to reflect your style! You could doodle around the quotes, include little sketches, or use colorful pens. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could add your reflections or stories about the quotes you collect. It’s a creative outlet waiting for you to dive in!

And trust me, the benefits are astounding! Flipping through the pages can reignite that spark when you feel stuck or uninspired. It’s like having a cheerleader in book form, reminding you of the beauty of words and thoughts. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with your emotions and reflect on your journey.

So, do you have a commonplace book? If you do, dust it off and revisit those gems! If you don’t, why not start today? Trust me, it’s a joyful adventure waiting to unfold. Grab that pen, start collecting, and let your commonplace book be a celebration of your thoughts and inspirations.

Happy writing, friends!

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Unlocking Creativity: 15 Essential Items for Your Pocket Notebook

Gary Fretwell — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 16:57:13 +0000

When ideas and inspiration can strike at any moment, a pocket notebook becomes an invaluable asset. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants to capture the essence of fleeting thoughts, keeping a notebook handy can transform your day-to-day experiences.

Here are 15 essential items to keep in your pocket notebook, and why they are crucial for fostering creativity, organization, and personal growth.

1. Inspirational Quotes: Jotting down quotes that resonate with you can serve as a powerful motivator, reminding you of your goals and aspirations during challenging times.
2. Daily Gratitude Lists: Recording what you are thankful for can shift your mindset and cultivate a positive outlook on life. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your emotional well-being.
3. Ideas for Future Projects: Keep a dedicated section for brainstorming. Ideas can be fleeting; capturing them instantly ensures you won’t forget that brilliant concept that could lead to your next big venture.
4. Meeting Notes: Documenting key points from meetings provides clarity and reduces the chance of miscommunication. This practice enhances your productivity and accountability.
5. Goals and Objectives: Writing down your short-term and long-term goals keeps them front and center. This visualization can increase your commitment to achieving them.
6. Interesting Research Findings: As a psychology expert, noting intriguing studies or data can help you in discussions or when preparing for presentations, enriching your knowledge base.
7. Book Recommendations: As a lover of reading, keep track of books that pique your interest or recommendations from others. This ensures your reading list remains fresh and inspiring.
8. Exercise Routines: As someone who values fitness, documenting your workouts can help track progress and motivate you to stay committed to your health goals.
9. Philanthropic Ideas: Whether it’s a new initiative for a non-profit or a personal act of kindness, recording these ideas, encourages you to act on them and make a difference.
10. Networking Contacts: Keep a list of people you meet, along with a note about your discussion. This can help you maintain valuable relationships and follow up on potential collaborations.
11. Travel Plans: Documenting your travel aspirations can fuel your wanderlust and help you plan future adventures, enriching your life experiences.
12. Random Thoughts and Musings: Sometimes, the most profound insights come from spontaneous reflections. Don’t hesitate to capture these; they may spark further creativty.
13. Life Lessons: Reflecting on experiences and the lessons learned can guide your future decisions, making you wiser and more resilient.
14. Mindfulness Reminders: Noting down techniques or phrases that encourage mindfulness can help you stay grounded and present amid life’s chaos.
15. Sketches or Doodles: Allowing your creative side to flow through sketches can relieve stress and stimulate your brain, enhancing problem-solving capacities.

Incorporating these elements into your pocket notebook not only keeps your thoughts organized, but also fosters a habit of reflection and inspiration. A pocket notebook is more than just a collection of papers; it’s a repository of your life’s journey, filled with insights, aspirations, and creativity. So, the next time you leave the house, make sure your pocket notebook is with you. It’s a small investment that promises profound returns in personal growth and creativity, helping you live your best life. Remember, your next great idea could be just a page away!

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“Timeless Ink: The Enduring Charm of Pen and Paper in a Digital Age”

Gary Fretwell — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:30:59 +0000

So, let’s chat about something I’ve been doing for a while now: mixing digital and analog tools in my productivity system. At 70, I’ve seen many changes in how we keep track of tasks and goals, from old-school notebooks to fancy apps. And honestly? I’ve found that using a bit of both works wonders. Here are four reasons why you should give this combo a shot!

1. Flexibility is Key

One of the best things about mixing digital and analog tools is the flexibility it gives you. Digital apps are great for quick changes and reminders. You can whip out your phone and adjust your calendar in seconds. But then there’s the good ol’ analog stuff, like notebooks and planners. There’s something special about writing things down by hand— it helps me remember better and gives my eyes a break from the screens. Plus, I can easily switch between the two methods depending on where I am or what I’m doing. Whether lounging at home or out and about, I’ve got the right tool for the job.

2. Focus and Mindfulness

Let’s be honest: distractions are everywhere these days. Notifications, emails, social media— it can be a lot! That’s why I love my analog tools. When I grab a notebook to journal or brainstorm, I can dive deep without my phone buzzing. Writing by hand keeps me focused and helps me reflect on my thoughts. It’s like a mini escape from the chaos of the digital world. Balancing both methods means I can enjoy the perks of tech while still finding moments of peace and clarity.

3. Get Creative!

Who doesn’t love a little creativity? Digital tools can sometimes feel a bit too structured for my liking. That’s where analog comes in. I love using colorful pens, stickers, and doodles in my planner— it makes organizing fun! When I sketch or mind map on paper, my ideas flow better. Mixing the rigidness of digital systems with the freedom of analog lets me express myself and keeps me motivated. Trust me, adding that personal touch makes all the difference!

4. You Can See Your Progress

Let’s be honest: there’s something super satisfying about crossing off a task on paper or flipping through a filled notebook. It’s a visual representation of everything you’ve accomplished! With digital checklists, it can sometimes feel a bit less rewarding. But with analog, I get that physical reminder of my hard work, which feels fantastic. Seeing all those completed tasks in front of me lifts my spirits and keeps me pushing forward, especially when things get tough.

So, there you have it! Using digital and analog tools in my productivity system has been a game-changer. The flexibility, focus, creativity, and tangible progress keep me organized and motivated. I highly recommend giving this hybrid approach a try. You might find that it brings a whole new level of productivity and fun to your daily routine! Happy organizing!

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