Notion vs. Paper Planners: Finding the System That Works for You
Let me guess: you’ve got a stack of beautiful, half-used planners gathering dust somewhere in your house and a Notion account that you maybe (just maybe) opened twice. Sound familiar? I’ve been there.
Picking the perfect planning system feels a bit like choosing between coffee and tea. Both have their perks, both have their fans, and both can help you conquer your day—if you actually use them. So, which one is right for you: the trusty paper planner or the all-in-one Notion? Let’s break it down.
Why Paper Planners Are the OG
There’s just something about cracking open a fresh planner, isn’t there? The smooth pages, the possibilities, the thrill of actually using all those pens and stickers you swore you needed.
Why you’ll love a paper planner:
It’s tangible: Writing things down can help you remember better (science agrees!).
It’s customizable: Stickers, doodles, fancy washi tape—make it as extra as you want.
It’s screen-free: No notifications, no distractions, just you and your to-do list.
Who it’s perfect for:
If you’re a hands-on kind of person who loves crossing things off with a flourish (yes, that little checkmark does hit differently), paper might be your vibe. It’s also great if you find joy in decorating your planner like it’s a scrapbook. Creative types, I’m looking at you!
Real-life example:
Maybe you’re a parent juggling soccer schedules and snack duty (bless you) or a student who thrives on writing things down during class. A paper planner can be your lifesaver—or at least your sanity saver.
Why Notion Is the New Kid on the Block
On the flip side, Notion is like the Swiss Army knife of planning. You can do everything with it: plan your week, track goals, manage projects, organize your pantry or skincare or wardrobe (yep, even those).
Why you’ll love Notion:
It’s flexible: Want a simple to-do list? Done. Need a full-on interface to manage your side hustle? Also done.
It’s portable: Syncs across all your devices, so your plans are always with you, and never accidentally left on your dresser or in a stack of books.
It’s eco-friendly: Save the trees while you save your schedule.
Who it’s perfect for:
If you’re tech-savvy or juggling a lot of moving parts—like running a business, managing a household, or both—Notion could be your new BFF. It’s also amazing for anyone who thrives on creating systems and loves a minimalist aesthetic.
Real-life example:
I use Notion to run my business (hello, WL Shop!), track goals, projects, tasks, and keep my brain organized. It’s my digital hub, and honestly, I’d be lost without it.
Which One Is Right for You?
Still not sure? Let’s break it down.
Ask yourself:
Do I need something I can physically hold and write in? → Paper planner.
Do I want to access my plans from anywhere? → Notion.
Do I like taking time to learn new tech? → Notion.
Do I prefer simplicity or pretty stickers? → Paper planner.
Am I on a budget? → Notion is free; paper planners can be pricey depending on how fancy you go.
What If You Want Both?
Plot twist: You don’t have to choose. Some of the most organized people I know use a hybrid system. For example:
Use Notion for big-picture planning, like tracking goals or managing projects.
Use a paper planner for your daily to-do lists or journaling.
The result? A system that’s equal parts practical and personal.
The Bottom Line
The best planning system is the one you’ll actually use. Whether it’s a gorgeous paper planner or a sleek Notion dashboard, the goal is the same: to get organized and make life feel a little less chaotic.
Ready to dive in? If you’re team digital, check out my Notion templates to get started. Prefer pen and paper? I’ve got printable planners that are as pretty as they are functional.
Now go forth and plan your heart out—you’ve got this!
