Planning can feel overwhelming at first, but we’re here to make it easier! Whether you’re a seasoned planner or just starting out, we’ve got you covered. Our YouTube channel is packed with content designed to inspire and guide you, and we share daily advice and ideas on Instagram Stories. Don't miss the highlight bubbles on Instagram where you'll see content organized by layout and need. You’ll also find practical tips in our blog posts, especially 6 Tips to Help You Get Started.
If you are truly just getting started with planning and aren't sure what people put into planners, check out this free printable on Getting Started: What to Put in Your Planner.
If Instagram and YouTube aren't your things and you're already feeling a little overwhelmed, here’s some quick advice from Laurel to help you dive in and make the most of your planner:
Laurel’s Quick Planning Tips
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Start with a Brain Drop
Write down every task, appointment, and idea floating around in your head. Get it all out onto paper or a digital note. (For extra fun, use one of our notepads designed just for this.)
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Input Deadlines
Transfer the deadlines and projects from your brain drop into your monthly and weekly planner views. You can set this up one month at a time or map out your entire year in advance. (Pro Tip: Planning just three months ahead can help keep things realistic and flexible. Try using sticky notes as placeholders for later appointments because your planning style might evolve, and this way you won’t feel locked in.)If you’d like more support with setting deadlines you can actually achieve with the time you have, we put together a YouTube video below that walks you through the process step by step, along with this free Timeline Tidy Up printable!
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Assign Tasks
Take the remaining tasks from your brain drop and assign them to a specific day, week, or month. Focus on imminent tasks first, and place long-term ideas in the corresponding month’s list to revisit later. -
Track Unassigned Items
Keep a small sticky note or one of our Pop-In-Panels handy with tasks that don’t have an immediate deadline. Address these as you find time and mental capacity or delegate them when possible.
Remember: Planning Is a Process
We revisit this process often, starting with a brain drop and working through the steps to organize our swirling thoughts into manageable actions. No matter where you are in your planning journey, be kind to yourself. There’s no such thing as perfect planning.
If you have any questions or need more guidance, we’re always here to help. Happy planning!