I must confess that I am a Franklin Covey poster boy. I started using the system in 1997 when I began my undergraduate studies and have used it since. Throughout the years I have experimented with other time management systems such as PDAs, computer programs, and smart phones, but I always come back to the simple pen and paper system of Stephen Covey.

What I love about the Franklin Covey system is that everything I need is in one place. Unlike PDAs or smart phones, it’s not necessary to click on a program to see my calendar, another to view my task list, or another to make important notes. It’s all there in my binder.

The planner is my ubiquitous capture tool containing both monthly and daily calendars with a daily task list next to the daily schedule of appointments. This allows me to take into account what my schedule will be like for the day when creating a task list. When my schedule is busy I’ll obviously make fewer and less time consuming tasks than I will on the days when I have a freer schedule. Alongside the daily schedule and task list is a section for notes and information that may be needed as reference that day. For example, if I have a task to make a business call, then I might make a note of the phone number and the important points that I want to discuss while on that call.

The system is highly customizable and contains five tabs that can be used however you desire. Mine are set up in a GTD like fashion (in my next time management article I will talk about my personal time management system and how I combine GTD and Franklin Covey). The planner includes other tabs where I can easily keep track of my daily, monthly, and yearly finances and make detailed action plans for my various goals and projects.

My favorite aspect is the cornerstone of the system wherein personal values and mission are emphasized. Covey’s philosophy is that our values determine how we live. Unclear and poorly defined values are reflected in our daily actions. Clearly defined values lead to less stress and more success and clarity. Stephen Covey includes in the planner a number of powerful exercises that assist in defining values and creating personal mission statements. I do these exercises every year when I get a new planning system and review them monthly. This is both empowering and liberating and serves to keep me focused throughout the year on what I value most.

Ultimately, I can’t give Franklin Covey enough accolades. It’s a powerful, convenient, easy to use, and diverse time management tool that keeps my personal, academic, and professional roles in such order that I don’t even want to imagine what my life would be without it.

Recommended Reading

• The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People, by Stephen Covey
• The Eighth Habit, by Stephen Covey