Last Updated on January 7, 2023 by Ellen
Using a planner is a wonderful way to achieve your goals and get organized. Check out these planner tips for beginners and start your planning journey.
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Planner Tips for Beginners
There are many reasons to begin using a planner. Some people like to use it to record important dates. Others use it to plan for the week ahead. I use it to stay organized in my home based businesses and personal life.
No matter what your reason is for starting a planner, these planner tips will help a beginner get their life organized using traditional planners.
Why should I use a planner?
There are lots of reasons to use a planner but here are some of the ways I’ve used mine.
- Meal planning
- Weight loss
- Daily goals
- Important events
- Goal setting
- Appointments
- Time management
Most planners have their own calendar built-in but if they don’t, you can add your own.
Best planner for a beginner
If you want a beginner planner, I recommend one that has a weekly planning layout. A weekly spread lets you see your upcoming week at one glance. And, it allows enough room for your daily routine.
Here are a few of the most common paper planners used for a beginner planner:
There are many other planners available so don’t be afraid to choose a new planner that really feels like you.
You don’t need any planning experience to get started. Just start planning your weekly goals.
How to use a planner effectively
Now that you’ve chosen a new planner, it’s time to learn how to use it effectively. Here are a few tips.
1. Find a system that works for you
The first step is to find a system that works for you. There are lots of different ways to organize your planner. You can use washi tape, planner stickers, or even colored pencils to help you keep track of different things.
2. Set up your planner
The next step is to set up your planner. This includes adding any important dates, birthdays, and anniversaries. You can also add any recurring appointments or tasks. I like to color code different types of entries to stay organized.
3. Fill in your daily tasks
After you’ve set up your planner, it’s time to start filling in your day to day goals. I like to start with my top priorities for the day. This could be things like working on a project, taking care of my kids, or going to the gym.
4. Review your planner regularly
One of the most important things you can do is review your planner regularly. This will help you stay on track and make changes as needed. I like to review mine at the beginning of each week. I check it each morning but you could look at it at night too.
5. Get creative and have fun
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your planner. You can use it to track any goals you have or even start a bullet journal.
Using a planner should be fun so try decorating and color coding different categories to be more productive. You can try different styles on different pages until you find a decorating style that feels like the most fun.
Planner decorating tips
If you want to get really creative with your planner, here are some planner tips for beginners.
1. Use washi tape
Washi tape is a great way to add color and personality to your planner. You can use it to create borders, make patterns, or even write out important tasks. It’s great for decorating any type of planner. Check it out here.
2. Add stickers
Planner stickers are another great way to decorate your planner. You can find them in a variety of colors and styles. They’re perfect for adding a pop of color or tracking important tasks. I like adding stickers for events like graduations or birthday parties.
Learn how to use planner stickers.
3. Use coloring pencils
Coloring pencils are another great way to add personality to your planner. You can use them to color code different sections or write out important tasks.
4 Fill in the white space
Use the empty spots on your planner to create borders, make patterns, or even write out important tasks. You can keep it super simple with stickers or try coloring coding your schedule.
5 Use sticky notes
Sticky notes are great for adding reminders or tracking tasks. You can write out your to-do list for the day and stick it in your planner. Or, you can use them to track goals or important projects. Add a note to your schedule easily and move it if you decide you need to.
Color coding planners
If you want to get really organized, you can color code your planner. This is a great way to keep track of different types of tasks or appointments. For example, you could use one color for work appointments and another color for personal appointments.
Or, you could use different colors for different types of tasks. For example, you could use red for urgent tasks, green for less urgent tasks, and blue for tasks that can be done anytime.
There are a few different ways you can color code your planner. The first is to use colored pencils or markers. This is a great option if you want to be able to change the colors as needed. Another option is to use colored washi tape in your planner. This is a great way to add color and personality to your planner. You can also use colored stickers or labels.
Whatever method you choose, make sure you use it consistently so you can easily find the information you’re looking for.
Tips for using a planner effectively
Plan out your week ahead of time. You are less likely to use your planner if you try to fill it out on the same day. Planners help you with weekly planning.
Get creative with the white space but don’t feel you have to. I love planner decorating and adding stickers and washi tape to the empty space on my planner. But, you don’t need to feel compelled to use it if you don’t want to.
The best thing about planners is that you can use them in your own way to simplify your life. I hope you’ve enjoyed a few of my planner tips for beginners. Now, that you know how to use a planner, happy planning!
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Ellen is a serial entrepreneur who owns 9 profitable blogs, two printable stores, an online vintage jewelry business, and a variety of other work at home endeavors. She shares tips for working at home successfully.