Lists
I have been making lists for as long as I can remember. I even recall one memory from the second grade of being so excited when the teacher said we would be making lists as part of the writing process. It's sad, really. This odd love for lists has prepared me for college, though, and for that I am grateful.
I used to use a little notebook for to-do lists. That worked just fine, but now I use Evernote. It's so easy to keep everything synced, and it's handy because I always have my iPad with me. I make my lists weekly. I also start them a few weeks in advance so that if I randomly think of something I need to do next week, I can go ahead and jot it down so I won't forget.
Planner (AKA my life)
I put EVERY little thing in my planner. If I lost it, I wouldn't know what to do with myself! I have a Lilly Pulitzer planner. This one is from last season. I just got the new Tusk in Sun design and I love it! If I didn't have a Lilly planner, I'd either choose Kate Spade or Erin Condren. When it comes to putting dates in my planner, I have a system. I put all events, meetings etc. in the monthly pages. Then, I take my syllabi and put all of the due dates, homework assignments, and test dates in the weekly pages. I don't go as far as color-coding certain things, but I do love using colorful pens! Color just makes my day better.
Every morning I check my planner and to-do list. I feel so prepared, and I feel like it takes some of my stress away. Also, there is no way to forget an assignment or meeting if you write it down. It really makes a huge difference.