How to Build a Weekly Planning Routine That Works for YOU
Step 1: Pick Your Planning Day
Consistency is key. Choose one day a week to sit down and plan—it could be Sunday evening to set the tone for the week or Monday morning with your coffee. The goal is to make this time feel intentional and enjoyable, so it becomes something you look forward to rather than a chore.
Pro Tip for Beginners: Start with just 15-20 minutes. You don’t need to map out every detail—just outline the major things you know are coming up.
Pro Tip for Seasoned Planners: Use this time to not only plan but also review the week you just completed. What worked? What didn’t? This reflection will fine-tune your system over time.
Step 2: Brain Dump Everything
And I mean everything. Start by clearing your mind. Write down everything you need to do, remember, or focus on this week. Get it all out on paper (or into your planner) before organizing it. For this step, I really feel the benefits of going digital, because you can drag and drop, move things around as you need to, while you’re sorting through your thoughts. But if you’re a pen-to-paper type (which I totally respect!), then this process still serves its purpose. Out of your brain, and onto the paper.
Why This Works:
It reduces mental clutter.
It gives you a realistic view of what’s on your plate.
It prevents you from forgetting “that one thing” you were certain you’d remember, but forgot anyway.
Step 3: Prioritize with Purpose
Once your brain dump is complete, highlight 2-3 must-do tasks for the week. These are the non-negotiables—the things that, if accomplished, will make you feel like your week was a success.
For Beginners: Focus on just one big goal each day. Too much at once can lead to overwhelm.
For Pros: Use categories or themes (e.g., work, family, personal) to balance your priorities and avoid tunnel vision.
Step 4: Create a Flexible Structure
Your planner should be your tool, not your boss. Life happens—plans change. Instead of scheduling every minute, block off time for key tasks and leave room for adjustments. Flexibility is the key to sustainability.
Beginners: Start simple. Try morning, afternoon, and evening blocks instead of rigid hourly schedules.
Pros: Experiment with time-blocking or habit stacking to maximize efficiency while staying adaptable.
Step 5: Build Your “Bonus List”
A bonus list is for the “it would be nice to get this done” tasks. These are the extras that you can tackle if you have time or energy but aren’t critical. It keeps you productive without adding unnecessary pressure. And please let me know I’m not the only one who’s had “reorganize the medicine cabinet” on my bonus list for like, two years.)
Step 6: Add a Little Joy
Make planning fun by incorporating something you love. Use colorful pens, stickers, or a playlist that gets you in the zone. If your planning routine feels good, you’re far more likely to stick with it. For me, it’s always a good cup of coffee (even if it’s decaf!) that makes me feel like I’m ready to take on the week.
Step 7: Revisit & Adjust Throughout the Week
Your planner isn’t just for Sunday night—it’s a living tool. Spend a few minutes each day revisiting it, crossing things off, and making adjustments as needed.
Beginners: Keep your planner visible—a glance at it each morning is enough to keep you on track.
Pros: Use a nightly review to follow up, and to prep for the next day to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Step 8: Celebrate Your Wins
At the end of the week, take a moment to acknowledge what you accomplished. It’s easy to focus on what didn’t get done, but recognizing your wins (big or small) builds momentum for the week ahead.
Get to Planning!
My shop is full of a variety of tools to help you build this routine, whether you’re just dipping your toes into planning or refining your seasoned approach.