Instructions: Read each of the question(s) below and check the box to the right that most accurately describes what you've done to get ready for your future and what you normally do to make the most of your present. When you finish, read the scoring explanation below.
Have you seriously reviewed your personal philosophy, values and beliefs lately? Are you confident that you know what they are? Have you discussed your thoughts on the subject with a significant other?
Do you have personal goals (1 year, 3 years, 10 years?) and have you prioritized those goals? Have you discussed family goals and career goals with your spouse, children, parents, boss, etc. as appropriate? Have these discussions resulted in specific, mutually agreed outcomes?
Have you broken down the big life goals into annual or semi annual goals? Have you developed action plans to meet these goals that are based on a realistic assessment of the resources you need and the resources you can access? Do your annual goals and plans have priorities? Have you set milestone dates to review your progress?
Do you consistently use a scheduler to record intended activities and accomplishments? Do you refer to that scheduler regularly to determine what you should be doing and how long you should be doing it? Do you update and adjust your written schedule as urgent needs intrude on your plan?
Do you have or are you building strong time use habits? Do you consciously try to stay focused on productive pursuits, adjusting as you sense a productivity decline? Do you review the priority (importance and urgency) of what you are about to do, what you are doing and what people ask you to do? Do you habitually consider the possible events in the future and make decisions that allow you to proact to them rather than having them force you to react? Do you think before you talk and listen carefully enough to avoid miscommunications?
Do you pay enough attention to things outside your plan and outside your habit patterns to notice opportunities, threats, challenges and pleasures? Do you consciously decide to incorporate new possibilities as you see fit?
If you gave yourself anything other than straight "Yes" checks, you've probably got room for improvement. Click the red cloud below for a glimpse at one comprehensive approach toward Life Management.
