The Gregorian Calendar was introduced in 1582, and New Year's Day was officially moved from March 25 - April 1 (New Year's week) to January 1.

Of course, news traveled slowly in those days and it took literally years for news of these changes in the calendar system to spread throughout the countryside. Therefore many more rural and isolated folks did not know about the change and others simply ignored it or preferred to celebrate the old dates.

These people were often called "fools" by the general populace, and were subjected to ridicule and sent on fools errands  - such as being sent invitations to nonexistent parties or lured into false romantic liaisons. The butts of these pranks became known as a "poisson d'avril" or "April fish". A common practice was to hook a paper fish on the back of someone as a joke.

This joke-playing tradition evolved into the custom of prank-playing on the first day of April. And it eventually spread to Britain and Scotland in the 18th century and was then introduced to the American colonies by the English and the French. 

So.....what is the point of this little history lesson? I'm glad you asked Your ability to track time and manage it effectively will either move you ahead or hold you back. Time management and mastering my calendar and schedule are the most valuable and useful abilities I have developed over the years. If you refuse to learn how to craft your calendar better the joke is on you.

I had fun today...I gave away a free copy of my new book..."Beat The Clock-Successful Time Management Strategies" to the first 10 folks who emailed me they read this blog. Be sure and check the blog tomorrow for news about my "Good Friday Event" at jimwideman.com

It's pays to read my blog ask the 10 Children's Leaders with a new book!