As we step into the freshness of a new year, everyone’s buzzing about goals, resolutions, and this intriguing More vs Less trend. Now, I’m not usually big on New Year’s resolutions, but this time around, I’m feeling the pull to be more intentional about my planning. And guess what? I’ve got a whole new planner setup in play, and I’m excited to spill the details – hoping it sticks with me throughout the year!
2024 is shaping up to be a year of big projects and a workload that demands serious organization. So, let me walk you through the evolution of my planner and journal setup.
First up, the 2024 Calendar – my command center for appointments, family events, and all those must-remember dates. Birthdays, anniversaries, travel plans, workshops – it’s all in there. A snapshot of my entire year, neatly organized.
Then there’s my Daily To-Do Planner. I’ve been loyal to a checklist-style planner I designed myself, but this year, I’m shaking things up. It’s a blank-page planner, with 365 lined pages. No rigid time breakdowns – just a running tab of what I need to conquer each day. It’s become my daily companion.
I still have a digital calendar on my phone for appointments, but there’s something about putting pen to paper in my planners that feels irreplaceable.
Adding another layer, I’ve introduced a 5-Year Journal into the mix. Inspired by artists like James Burke and writer Austen Kleon, this “line-a-day” journal captures the nuances of each day. Life is gearing up for significant changes – my daughter’s moving out, my son’s hitting the big 21 – and it’s the perfect time to start this new journaling practice. I plan to add snippets, quotes, and who knows what else – it’s an evolving experiment.
Beyond these, my daily rituals include a daily journal, a business journal, a commonplace book, and an inner child/shadow journal. Each has its own purpose.
I’m head over heels for my yellow hardcover journals – they just radiate happiness. And my journal carrier – a cute white tote bag – goes everywhere with me. From the studio to the house, it’s never far, making it easy for me to journal throughout the day.
Come bedtime, I settle in with my calendar and planners. I review the day, check off what’s done, tweak my to-do list for the next day to get a clear picture of tomorrow.
And if that wasn’t enough, I’ve got a list of 100 things for the year – a mix of simple pleasures and ambitious goals. It’s a challenge that keeps me focused for the year. It’s so fun to check off items as I complete them. I’ve done this twice before and loved the outcome. I included a blank 100 Things list in the latest copy of Creative Muse Magazine. If you want a copy of the free digital art magazine…get it here.
I’ve also chosen my word/phrase for the year: “Let Go”. As life shifts and my kids embark on their own journeys, I’m embracing the necessity to “let go.” My son’s even turned it into a one-word joke – “Le’Go.”
To add a visual touch, I’ve crafted a 2024 vision board. Last year’s was a bit too cumbersome on a large poster board, so this time, I’ve tucked it into the front pages of my Daily Planner. The 100’s Things to Do list, habit tracker, and book list for the year are also included in my planner. I love having all my goals, plans and to do list all in one place.
It might sound like a lot, but each piece serves a purpose and adds value to my day. I’ve been intentional about creating a setup that works for me without overwhelming. And you know what? So far, I’m absolutely loving it. But hey, let’s catch up in a few months, and I’ll let you know how it’s really going.
Now you…did you pick a word or phrase for the year? How’s your vision board shaping up? What’s your go-to planner, and are you a fellow daily journal aficionado? I’m all ears – spill the details!
Heidi Cogdill 