In an increasingly fast-paced world where time is both a precious commodity and a constant challenge to manage, the role of a planner extends beyond mere scheduling; it becomes a pivotal tool for cultivating both organization and creativity. The art of planning not only structures our days but also shapes our thoughts, allowing us to harness our creativity effectively. Intentional planning can lead to lasting effects on both professional endeavors and personal aspirations. However, with the time constraints of today’s world, having dedicated time to spend working in a planner can be difficult. Recognizing these challenges, the Boone County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences partnered with the Boone County Community Arts Agent to launch the "Planner Hours" program. What began as a single class evolved into a four-part series spanning the entire 2024 calendar year in response to enthusiastic participant feedback and requests.

Each session of the program is structured to include discussions, teachings, and ample time dedicated to hands-on planner work. The first two sessions focused on how planners enhance organization and productivity, using resources from the Time Well Spent Curriculum. Participants explored various planner types, layouts, and discussed financial considerations of purchasing a planner. The Community Arts Agent highlighted creative approaches to personalizing planners, emphasizing their role in setting and achieving personal or professional goals.

Every participant received a 2024 planner along with creative materials to personalize their planner. Following the initial session, feedback was overwhelmingly positive. There were 14 people who attended the initial session and all participants reported gaining a better understanding of simplifying and maximizing their time and recognized the importance of establishing personal routines. Every participant also expressed their intentions to create or refine their productivity and organizational habits through planner usage. Of those who attended the first session and were able to make it to the second session, 100% were still using their planner 3 months later.

Participant testimonials reflect the program's impact:

“This was the best class I have ever been to, and I crossed county lines for it and I will definitely come back.”

“This was the first class I’ve attended, and I’ll be back!”

“Organization doesn’t just happen. You have to have a plan.”