How Well Do You Plan?

Take the quiz below to see if you are really are the "planner" you think you are.

DIRECTIONS: On a scrap sheet of paper, jot down the number that best describes you.

	Never	Seldom	Sometimes	Often	Always
How often do you plan in an effort to keep life from running out of control?	1	2	3	4	5
Do you put daily plans on paper?	1	2	3	4	5
Do you allow flexibility in your plans?	1	2	3	4	5
How often do you ac-complish all you plan for a given day?	1	2	3	4	5
How often do you plan time for what matters most to you?	1	2	3	4	5
How often is your daily plan de-stroyed by urgent in- terruptions?	5	4	3	2	1

SCORING: Add the numbers next to your answers.

INTERPRETATION:

6-10: Terrible Planner.
You should consider using new tools and processes to help you plan effectively. A great first step would be to take a time management course.

11-15: Below average planner.
You may already have a planning system, but using it more effectively will help to reduce the stress and lack of control you feel in your life.

16-20: Average planner.
Your planning system is working, but you can do better. You may need help focusing on priorities, dealing with urgent interruptions or writing your daily plan.

21-25: Above-average planner.
Your planning system is working well. Keep up the good work, with periodic reviews to be sure you’re planning around what matters most in your life.

26-30: Excellent planner--or candidate for burnout?
You have mastered planning and should experience the serenity that comes from taking charge of your life. But make sure you’re in control of your planning rather than letting it control you.

(*Quiz written for USA WEEKEND by time management expert Hyrum Smith, chairman of the Franklin Covey Co.)