There's no other way to say it... my planer was making me feel like a complete failure. For years, I believed that a meticulously planned day equaled a successful one. I filled my planner with tasks, appointments, and goals, thinking that checking off each box would bring me closer to the life I envisioned. But instead of feeling accomplished, I often ended my days overwhelmed and defeated. It wasn't until I paused to reflect that I realized the problem wasn't me—it was the way I was using my planner. So at the beginning of 2025, I made a simple change that completely transformed how I feel about myself—and it all started with the way I use my planner.
The Turning Point
I never thought something as simple as a planner could make such a huge difference in how I feel about myself—but it did. After years of feeling like I was never doing enough, I finally found a way to use my planner that supports my productivity and my mental health.
Embracing a New Planning Approach:
  1. I started writing down everything I did each day, not just what I had to do. Instead of stressing about all the things I hadn’t checked off yet, I started celebrating what I had already accomplished. Now, I use the weekly spread in my planner as a daily log, adding tasks after I complete them. It gives me a sense of pride, not pressure.
  2. I turned my to-do list into a running log. The “This Week” page on the left side of my weekly spread used to feel rigid. Now, I use it as a flexible space to jot down anything I want to get done—no strict deadlines, just a helpful overview. It keeps me on track without overwhelming me.
  3. I turned my monthly spread into a gratitude log. This page used to sit empty, but now it’s one of my favorites. Each night before bed, I jot down at least three things I’m grateful for. On hard days, I can flip back through and see all the little joys I might’ve forgotten.
  4. I started using the “monthly notes” as a journaling space. At the beginning of each month, I take a few minutes to reflect on how the previous month went. I look at my goals, think about what worked in my daily routines/productivity and what didn’t, and write a bit about how I’m feeling. It’s a grounding ritual I’ve come to really value.
  5. I gave myself room for flexibility. One of the biggest mindset shifts I made was letting go of the need to finish everything right now. If something doesn’t get done this week, I just leave it uncrossed and come back to it later. I no longer feel like a failure when life happens. I just make sure to start my week completing the most important tasks on my list so I can be sure to get to my time-sensitive responsibilities promptly.
Bonus Habits That Make It All Work:
  • I use the “This Week’s Goals” section as a flex space—whether it’s for budgeting, video planning, or something else entirely.
  • I review my goals at least once a week to stay aligned and motivated.
  • I use clear sticky notes with inspiring quotes that I can swap out depending on my mood or needs that week.
The Impact on My Confidence
By redefining my relationship with my planner, I've noticed a significant boost in my self-confidence. I'm no longer burdened by unrealistic expectations. Instead, I feel empowered, organized, and more in tune with my personal and professional life.
This approach has not only improved my productivity but also enhanced my overall well-being.
Let's Connect
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your to-do list? How do you manage unexpected tasks and maintain your confidence? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences!

Need help getting organized?

Schedule your ✨complimentary✨ phone consultation to learn how I can help you on your path to a more organized life!

Check out my post:

The Secret to a Tidy Kitchen

A Professional Organizer's Step-by-Step Guide