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@rafo17, I use advance planning and alarms, to make sure I get out the door on time, and with everything I need.
My smartphone has been a huge help, because it’s very easy to set multiple alarms, and I can customize the sounds, and label them. And they’re LOUD. When they go off, I have to pay attention!
I always write down every event as soon as I get it, in both my Daytimer (which always lives in the same place) and on my smartphone, and ONLY in my Daytimer and on my smartphone. I always note the time as 15 minutes before the time I need to be there. If I arrive any later than “15 minutes before”, I consider that to be “late”.
For each event, I set an alarm on my smartphone, for a time that allows me enough travel time (allowing extra time for possible delays).
If I’m not familiar with where I’m going, I’ll check Google Maps in advance, to plan my route, and print out a map.
Since I don’t drive, I check the public transit schedules in advance & use their “journey planners” to plan my route. And I’ll use smartphone apps. to track the vehicles in real-time (since they could be running early or late). This ensures that I don’t miss the one I need, and can make alternate arrangements if there’s a delay.
If I need to do some special preparations before I leave (putting on my uniform for work, or putting on my stage make-up for a gig), I’ll set an alarm for the time I need to start getting ready, and another one for when I have to leave.
If I have to bring along a bunch of things (like to a gig, or on a trip), I’ll make & follow a checklist in advance, so I’ll have everything packed and waiting at the front door, where I can’t miss it.
To really make sure I remember important things, I’ll make a note on the side of my left hand, between the thumb & the wrist, where I can’t miss seeing it. I’ll do this on the night before, or first thing in the morning.
It takes discipline to set up & follow this system, but I have to do it, because I love the feeling of accomplishment & being in control that I get when I show up, on time, every time, with everything I need…and because I hate the panic & confusion & guilt that I go through, if I don’t follow my system!
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