In today’s digital age, it’s SO easy to feel pressured to use the latest apps and software for organization and productivity. But there’s no shame in sticking with old school tools if they work for you. In fact, many successful entrepreneurs and business owners I work with swear by these timeless methods.
As female entrepreneurs, we don’t have to spend money on every new app or software. In fact, our businesses will be healthier and more streamlined if we learn to embrace the old!
Here are some of my favorite old school tools for maintaining organization and boosting productivity in my home office. (Get to know me better here!)
Paper Planner for Daily Tasks
I’ve been using the Full Focus Planner for years, and though I’m tempted by the Cultivate What Matters Planner, I remain loyal to Full Focus. Why? Because what I have is working! And I know that constantly bouncing from planner to planner means things get lost.
A paper planner helps me map out my day, set priorities, and keep track of meetings. One of my favorite things on the Full Focus Planner is the 3 Most Important Things section at the top. It empowers me to think about the three MOST strategic tasks each day and focus on those first.
I still loooove my iCal for all my coaching calls, family and personal appointments, etc. But there is just something about paper that I love for the daily, important (and urgent) tasks.
Not everything has to be digital. Sometimes, the tactile satisfaction of writing things down can enhance productivity and keep you organized. Use what works for you when it comes to managing your daily tasks or meetings. #noshame
Physical Timer
If you have ADHD, you know that iPhone and Alexa timers often fall short—they’re too easy to dismiss with a swipe. And you can’t SEE the time ticking away. That’s why I rely on a physical timer where the minutes disappear before your eyes.
It sits on my desk, and as the hand moves down to zero, the minutes quite literally disappear, and the passing of time cannot be ignored. For those struggling with focus, this can be a game-changer. If you’re looking for a cute timer, this one is my absolute FAVORITE!!
Notebooks
Many of my clients, some running businesses with annual revenues between $300,000 and $1M, rely on paper notebooks. Initially, they felt embarrassed to admit this to me as their business coach, but there’s no reason for shame.
If jotting down notes and ideas in a notebook keeps you organized and productive, that’s all that matters. I’ve seen way too many Trello and Asana gurus criticizing Post-It notes and notebooks. What they fail to acknowledge is that people’s brains work differently. If you KNOW a notebook works for you, USE IT. Stop chasing technology out of shame.
Efficiency experts may push digital tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday, but those don’t work for everyone. They might not work for you, beautiful entrepreneur. It’s perfectly fine to keep using your paper notebooks if they help you stay on top of your tasks.
Physical Calendar
While I use a digital calendar and leverage Calendly for scheduling coaching calls, my large annual wall calendar is indispensable. Seeing all my sales runways and marketing windows laid out visually on one big calendar is something digital tools can’t replicate.
It provides a comprehensive overview that’s absolutely essential for long-term planning. I will never give up my wall calendar for my business!
So, what works for you?
Everyone has their own unique way of staying organized and productive. Don’t feel pressured to conform to digital trends if they don’t suit your personality. Whether it’s a paper planner, a physical timer, notebooks, or a wall calendar, use what works best for you. The key to productivity and organization is finding tools that fit your personal workflow, not someone else’s.
Do you have an old school tool that you love? Share it in the comments below or send me an IG DM!
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Disclaimer: While Kelly is a certified business coach this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as financial advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace legal or financial advice. Always check with your own legal or financial team before trying or implementing any information read here. As an Amazon Associate Kelly also earns from qualifying purchases.
