My Organized Biz

I’ve tried a variety of electronic devices for my calendar. Palm Pilot, cell phone, iCal on my Mac. And I do use iCal and Google calendar somewhat consistently. So why do I carry a small weekly calendar in my bag?

1) No batteries.
I don’t have to remember to charge a device for my calendar, whether it’s a Palm Pilot, cell phone, or laptop. It doesn’t go dead. I don’t even need electricity at all to manage this calendar. Ever. I could update it by candlelight if needed.

2) No syncing.
With multiple electronic calendars, I have to enter items more than once. And I do, sometimes. I like the online calendar so I can use any computer. I like the calendar on my laptop for when I don’t have internet access. But my paper calendar is where I keep the master list. Everything. If it’s not on there, I won’t remember it. (I do use electronic reminders just before appointments, though. My memory is nowhere near perfect.)

3) No catastrophic data loss. Mostly.
Unless I actually lose my paper calendar, I don’t have to worry about a power outage wiping my data or a hard drive failure. And if my recording device (pen) runs out, I can cheaply get another. With little down time.

4) Take it anywhere.
I can use it on the plane even when we’re taking off or landing. It’s small enough to fit in my purse. I can easily take it to meetings. It has my week at a glance, so I can plan doctor’s appointments or play dates.

5) Reliability.
My calendar is only as reliable as its operator. But that’s true for any calendaring system. If I always carry it with me, I can easily check my schedule. It’s my main, reliable calendar. All of the others are really just supplemental.

So what about you? Do you still use a paper calendar or planner? Do you prefer digital? Why?

Image: Newscom

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