July 2016

** A note to a young man of 15, as I give him the gift of a Franklin-Covey style Time Planner **

I'm doing something for you that I wish someone had done for me when I was about your age.

At this time in your life, I'm sure you are developing Personal Goals, Ambitions, and Dreams. You are starting to develop your own, personal sense of achievement and success. I respect these as very private and personal, and also very important to you. And, I fully expect that during the next 5-10 years, these will become far more important and challenging.

I offer this "Time Planner" as a means towards helping you reach your goals, fulfill your ambitions, and reach a level of personal success even beyond your current dreams.

Perhaps you are not quite ready for this yet? If I am giving this too early, just keep it for awhile so you can find it when the timing is right.

In Academics (High School & College), Athletics (Basketball & Track), Family, Friendships, Relationships, and Work -- setting goals and being able to discipline yourself towards achieving them is important. As your life moves forward into the challenges and responsibilities of manhood, I'm sure you will find goal-setting and accomplishment of tasks to be critical to your success. It's sad, but some folks never learn how to set goals and navigate towards achieving them. This "Planner" will help you develop these skills.

In today's world of Tech, many paper systems can be replaced by software. This "Planner System" is easily replaced with 1 or more smart-phone apps. But, how you do this planning really matters very little -- whether by "planner book" or apps on your phone or (as I still prefer) just a plain yellow legal pad. What matters is Your Thinking, Your Respect for Your Goals, Your Ability to manage Your Time, and Your personal investment of a few minutes every day or week.

There are only 24 hours to each day and we need at least 1/3 for sleep and personal care. Use the remaining 16 hours wisely. Do not squander or waste these hours, as they are vital for realizing your dreams of future success.

Good Luck!!

Papa Tom