People might think being retired means an agenda is not necessary. But, time goes very fast and there are things on the agenda. As an academic, it's also likely to be a time for more writing. I fill out a daily sheet with a gratitude statement, appointments etc. Then I list three things that seriously need to be done (or fewer if I need more focus). In another part of the page, I list other things I need to do AND steps towards the must be done items. For writing, I've found that simply listing "Write (project name) 10 minutes" is the best way. It really means "sit down to write for 10 minutes, but keep going until you run out of steam." I usually write in about 35 minute chunks and can normally manage two chunks a day. If I don't manage 10 minutes, then I spend 10 minutes looking for new articles for some near-by next step in the writing project. I check things off (or not). The next day, I review what I did/didn't do and ask what was helpful or what else could I try to get the writing going? Each month I take a look at my pile of daily notes to look for any patterns. In retirement, I've been very reliable about doing this to do list every day. Lots of room for fun, getting the groceries, walking the dog, and playing card games with my husband...and lots more writing, too.
People might think being retired means an agenda is not necessary. But, time goes very fast and there are things on the agenda. As an academic, it's also likely to be a time for more writing. I fill out a daily sheet with a gratitude statement, appointments etc. Then I list three things that seriously need to be done (or fewer if I need more focus). In another part of the page, I list other things I need to do AND steps towards the must be done items. For writing, I've found that simply listing "Write (project name) 10 minutes" is the best way. It really means "sit down to write for 10 minutes, but keep going until you run out of steam." I usually write in about 35 minute chunks and can normally manage two chunks a day. If I don't manage 10 minutes, then I spend 10 minutes looking for new articles for some near-by next step in the writing project. I check things off (or not). The next day, I review what I did/didn't do and ask what was helpful or what else could I try to get the writing going? Each month I take a look at my pile of daily notes to look for any patterns. In retirement, I've been very reliable about doing this to do list every day. Lots of room for fun, getting the groceries, walking the dog, and playing card games with my husband...and lots more writing, too.