How I Manage My Time with Just Symbols and a List
# How I Manage My Time with Just Symbols and a List
I used to overthink my schedule.
Too many things to do. No idea where to start.
So I created a system — simple, visual, and honest.
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## Step 1: I Write It All Down
Every morning (or the night before), I list everything I need to do — small or big.
Then I give each task a **priority grade**:
- `A` = Important and urgent
- `B` = Important but not urgent
- `C` = Optional or can be delegated
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## Step 2: I Add a Symbol
After that, I track the **status** of each task using a symbol:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|--------|---------|
| ✔︎ | Completed |
| ✘ | Canceled |
| ~ | In Progress |
| D | Delayed or postponed |
At the end of the day, I go over the list and mark everything.
It helps me **visually reflect** on how I handled my time — not just what I finished.
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## Step 3: I Adjust My Routine Accordingly
This method shows me:
- What I tend to delay
- Which “C” tasks are taking too much space
- Where I need to slow down or cut back
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## Tools That Help Me
- 📱 **Daily reminders for slow jogging and workouts**
→ Set on my phone as repeating alarms, so I never “forget” to take care of myself.
- ⏲️ **Pomodoro timer (visual)** for deep work sessions
→ The visual countdown helps me stay present. I often use a desktop timer with a simple ring when time’s up.
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## Why It Works for Me
- I don’t need fancy apps or 10-tab planners
- It’s fast, honest, and flexible
- My schedule serves *me*, not the other way around
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If you feel overwhelmed, try this:
- Write one list
- Add symbols as you go
- Reflect at the end of the day, even for 2 minutes
Time is only chaos when we don’t give it structure.
— Jason
