APPtitude — 3 Ways Your Phone Can Keep You On Track

APPtitude — 3 Ways Your Phone Can Keep You On Track

You forgot to do something recently. It’s OK; we all do.

Maybe it was something small like neglecting to run the dishwasher before leaving the house. Or, it might have been something bigger like forgetting to make your car payment on time. Fortunately, the key to fixing the forgetfulness is already in your hand — or charging on your nightstand. It’s time to move beyond the sticky-note system and start using reminder apps on your smartphone like a pro.

Get started

First, mentally walk through the things you do on a daily, weekly and monthly basis and write them down. You’ll find more routine than you realize. Consider health commitments, what keeps your lifestyle on track, and special occasions. Once you've compiled all of them, put them into groups.

1. Don’t-miss dates

   Organize time-sensitive events on a calendar app with repeating interval functions to set annual or semiannual reminders. Select an app that works across all of your devices.

   • Birthdays
   • Anniversaries
   • Doctor/dentist appointments
   • Vet appointments
   • Scheduled fitness classes
   • Social events

2. Can’t-miss tasks

   Schedule tasks that must be done on time (but could be completed ahead of the deadline) in a calendar-based app or a reminder app. Use settings to allow for persistent reminders if you find yourself unable to meet a deadline.

   • Pay bills like auto loans, mortgage or utilities
   • Renew permits or licenses 
   • One-off tasks with a specific due date

3. Adjustable activities

   Plan tasks with flexible deadlines in a reminder app. These could also include minor day-to-day tasks like daily workouts.

   • Routine vehicle maintenance like getting your oil changed
   • Washing your vehicle
   • Home tasks like changing smoke alarm batteries
   • Walking your dog
   • Buying groceries
   • One-off tasks where deadlines aren’t critical

Next-level digital reminders

Technology has made it easier than ever to use digital reminder tools to their fullest potential, even from your car, truck or SUV. Newer vehicles come equipped with connected car apps like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ that interface with your smartphone and allow you to set reminders with the push of a button on your steering wheel. The OnStar® app can also keep you connected to know when maintenance is needed on your vehicle.

Smart home products like Amazon Echo (Alexa) and Google Home™ can help continue the hands-free integration. Simply speaking commands to set reminders and calendar events can be the key to removing the excuses of forgetting to set reminders and help get you on a consistent path to remembering.

By Scooter Hendon, GM Financial

Scooter Hendon might work indoors, but his heart is in the outdoors. Whether he's with his family or flying solo, he loves a good camping, backpacking or hiking adventure. When Scooter’s not hitting the road in his Chevy Silverado to a state or national park, he’s saving up for his next trip.