Mixing Up Your Planner Routine
Welcome to the wonderful world of planning, where creativity meets productivity—just like baking a perfect cake! If you’re a new planner, it’s important to know that finding the perfect approach to planning is much like experimenting in the kitchen: you have to try different techniques until you discover what works best for you. Today, we’re exploring how different baking techniques can inspire unique planning methods that help you blend productivity and creativity.
Layering Your Plans: Prioritizing Like a Pro
Layering in baking is all about building one delicious level upon another. The same principle can be applied to your planning routine. Think of your tasks as the layers of a cake—each layer representing a level of importance or urgency. Prioritizing your tasks, or “layering” them, helps you create a strong foundation for your day.
When planning, start by laying down your “must-do” tasks—those top-priority items that will set you up for success. Then, add in your “nice-to-do” tasks, which are important but not essential to complete that day. By layering tasks in this way, you make sure that the most crucial things get done, while also setting realistic expectations for the rest of your to-dos.
Consider using a tool like sticky notes to layer your to-dos. Use sticky notes to cover/uncover your to-do list so you only “see” a portion of it at a time, thus reducing the sense of overwhelm if your list is long. Or write your daily to-dos on sticky notes, with your “must do” tasks listed first. When you’ve tackled the item on the first sticky note, take it off and uncover your next task. Just keep working until you’re done!
Another fun way to use the sticky note is just to add a pop of color and creativity to your pages. Use some craft glue to paste it directly on your planner page as an extra “note” section. Highlight your top priority. Add an encouraging affirmation. Be creative!
Kneading Your Plans: Adjusting and Refining
Kneading dough takes time, effort, and adjustments—just like perfecting your planning process. When you knead, you stretch and work the dough to get the right texture. Similarly, your planning strategy needs refining over time.
Maybe your initial approach was too rigid, or perhaps your goals were unrealistic. That’s okay! Planning, like baking, is an iterative process. Make those adjustments, knead in new ideas, and refine your goals until everything feels just right. Don’t be afraid to reshape and rework your plans so that they align with your current priorities and energy levels.
Mixing Inserts: Trying Different Tools
A successful baker knows which ingredients go well together, and sometimes it’s about trying different combinations until you get the right mix. The same goes for your planner inserts—mixing things up until you find what works for you is key.
Maybe a daily insert gives you just the right amount of structure for your weekdays, while a weekly spread is perfect for mapping out longer-term projects. Try a budgeting insert one week and a habit-tracking one the next. Experiment with different combinations to find the mix that helps you be productive and feel organized.
Blending Digital Tools with Paper Planning
Just like blending ingredients together can create the perfect mix, combining digital tools with paper planning can bring out the best in both. While paper planners are great for creativity and mindfulness, digital tools can add an extra layer of efficiency.
Consider using digital reminders, timers, or alarms to support your planning routine. Set a timer to remind yourself when it’s time to switch tasks or to take a break. Blending these digital processes into your paper planning can help keep you on track, especially during busy days when time management is key.
Join the Community and Keep Mixing It Up!
The best part of any creative endeavor—whether baking or planning—is the community that comes with it. Our Planners in Progress sessions, relaunching on October 20th with a refined format, are a great way to learn new techniques, share your wins, and get inspired by other planners. These weekly sessions help you stay on track, make adjustments as needed, and discover new planning tools and techniques—all while having fun.
Join us and continue to experiment with your planner routine. Remember, there’s no “right way” to plan, only the way that works best for you. So grab your planner (and maybe a baking treat) and start mixing up your planning routine today!
Join our community and participate in our “Planners in Progress” sessions, starting on October 20th. Let’s blend creativity and productivity to make planning as enjoyable as baking!