A few years ago, I made a connection between my secret weakness for personal planners, and my self-confidence. See, I have a collection of partially used planners of various shapes, sizes, paper styles, and time formats. I had spent YEARS buying the next planner hoping that THIS would be the one that suddenly made all my organizational dreams come true. If I could just get the right planner, I’d be peaceful and organized and (suddenly) an artist with colored markers and washi tape.

Spoiler: that planner doesn’t exist.

The thing is though, I did eventually find the perfect planner for me after I realized I had to stop trying to fit myself into someone else’s idea of organized and instead organize my life based on what works for me. Turns out I didn’t need to turn into someone else entirely in order to feel the freedom that comes from a well planned week.

It sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how long it took me to get it.

Image item

Here’s what I had to do:
First, tune in and see what I needed? Translation: what was important to me versus what was I feeling like I SHOULD have and do based on someone else’s ideas or tips or even their success?

Next, when I got my values and priorities sorted, then I had to look to practical logistics. I asked myself some questions.
1.What’s worked before? What hasn’t?
2.What feels like a good routine?
3.What’s realistically doable long term? Meaning, will this grand plan actually last in real life.

When I got all that sorted, I did one last thing that I’m pretty sure set my time management strategy in stone.

I turned planning into a ritual. I set aside time and space to not just create an executable plan, I made that time something I looked forward to doing every week. I lit some candles. I created a cute corner in my office. I poured myself a warm cup of cacao or tea and I told everyone in my house “do not disturb” for an hour each week.

It’s glorious and feels a bit like self-care that’s productive too. What could be better.

The results are that I have more space to change when necessary (which, let’s face it, is often necessary.). Flexibility comes easier when there is routine.

And, (I think this is the secret sauce) I have both space and time to allow the foresight to plan for transitions. Instead of constantly reacting, I am ready for (almost) everything life throws my way.

Image item

If you find the chaos of life is getting you down, or you’re always in react mode, I’m challenging you to practice this same brand of self care by making your planning a ritual.

  • First, get rid of the outside noise and the shoulds.
  • Focus on planning only what you and your family need.
  • Be realistic-plan toward your strengths rather than trying to make yourself fit into someone else’s.
  • Set aside time and create space to routinely reviews and plan your days.

Most importantly, do it all your way. No matter how fancy the washi tape-no one else’s ideas of planning your time are perfect for you. You are perfect for you.

Cristie XOXO