Photograph Credit: iStockphoto

Knowing that a successful year will not materialize on its own, we must plan and prepare for a prosperous 2013.

Throughout the 31 days of January, I will choose one topic each day to prepare or schedule for this year.

Without preparation, I know I will forget, miss, or overlook certain items. If you desire an organized year, then join me in this adventure of Planning for Success for a prosperous 2013.

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Day 1: Select a Planning Tool

Day 2: Add Your Priorities

Day 3: Print and Display Your Menu Planner – with free printable

Day 4: Record Membership Expiration Dates

Though I prefer the paper and pen method to scheduling, you may depend on an electronic version. Having dealt with identity theft in 2012, I am not ready to plunge into linking my bank accounts into one on-line source. However, I know others who use and recommend the all-in-one options, including mobile and tablet apps, available through sites like Manilla.com.

In planning for success, I am adding our membership expiration dates to my calendar. These accounts are typically annual memberships.

Knowing how long I have to use these benefits helps me plan our savings. We enjoy getting the most from our memberships, so I add to the top of my monthly calendar page a list of memberships expiring that month with the exact date.

Internet Option: If you are using an on-line source, like Manilla.com, you can setup alerts prior to your membership expiration date to remind you to plan a visit.

I also list the membership on the calendar day that it expires. Numerous times we have used our membership on the expiration date. When we renew, we wait until the next visit or a great sale. 😉

Memberships Expiration Dates Noted on My Calendar

• Gardens membership
• PictureMe Portrait Studios’ Portrait Smiles Club – special deals and a free 8 x 10 at each session
• Recreational District membership – unlimited water park access, inflatable zone, and ice skating
• Sam’s Club
• Science museum membership
• Simon Kidgits Club
• Zoo membership

Other Memberships You Might Add to Your Calendar

• AAA, travel club, or roadside assistance, if your car insurance doesn’t provide this coverage
• BJs, Costco, or other warehouse option
• Country clubs
• Golf and other sports clubs

In planning for success, record your membership expiration dates on your planning tool. With the dates listed, you will see a reminder to plan that last visit or invest in another membership without losing any benefits.

Annual memberships have been worth the money for our family, and I continue to track the dates to get the most from these activities. Happy recording!

Question: What additional memberships did I miss?