How can I be better at logistical thinking?

[ConfessionsOfTeenageDramaQueen]

I don't know if anyone can answer this but I want to get better at planning things out. For example a family member will suggest meeting at a certain cafe and I'll say yes without thinking about it cause it's 3 months away and then the day rolls round and it turns out it's a mission to get to, at an awkward time for the baby's nap etc etc.

Equally I bought Xmas gifts for family abroad well in advance but faffed around with shipping them (I tried two different services but both were much much more expensive than I bargained for so then I had to repackage gifts etc) and one definitely didn't get to the recipient in time which was frustrating (as it was a sweet Xmas onesie for their newborn which'll never get used now).

Anyway - if you're a good planner how do you do it?!

With the first one: ” I’ll check and get back to you"

The second - diary note in your calendar/phone in good time to send xx

You have to start at the basics: list everything. Calendars, notes apps/books, digital calendars (and use the notifications). The big part: Make sure you check them! Useless having lists and plans if you can't readily access them or forget to check and update them.

If you make plans for coffee, put it in your calendar then put a reminder in the week before. It'll remind you to check in with the person you're meeting and plan the event which will be closer to the routine you'll currently be following.

Once you've got the lists down, it'll become second nature and eventually your whole mind will work on an organised filing system within a few seconds of an idea being brought up.