Fresh Start: Planner Organization Ideas

ByDiane Henkler 01/05/201410/16/2022 Last updated:10/16/2022

After using many daily planners to help me organize my blog and personal life, I have found the Planner Pad system works far better for a few reasons. If you are thinking about purchasing a planner to get organized, read on.

With the harried, happy rush of the holidays behind us, the new year begins, fresh and open – the proverbial blank slate – I have my daily planner and am ready to go!

Three years ago I found out about a Planner Pad from a Philadelphia area bloggers group I belong to. I had used many types and styles of planners before and was never happy with any of them. That changed once I bought a Planner Pad. I have been using one ever since!

That fact alone tells you just how much I love the system and sharing my planner organization ideas with you.

This year I decided to add my own style to my brand new Planner Pad. Style-it-up just for me using the colors and designs that will help inspire me to action.

I love seeing how some people take the time to color code their planners and calendars. I don’t do that – too complicated for me, but I do love color and added it to my Planner Pad with scrapbook paper, markers, sticky tabs, and fun paper clips.

I love the visual-ness of a pen to paper planner. I like to see how the pieces of my life fit together. Everything becomes clear – nothing gets jumbled. I can see my life and my work week at a glance – what I am working on, what is scheduled, along with the deadlines, too.

To also help keep me organized, I use the free phone app, Any.Do. It is perfect for notes and lists I need when I am out and about.

I like the clean un-cluttered interface. It even reminds me each morning to take a look and access my day. Using it along with my planner, I can keep myself and day pretty organized.

To decorate my planner in my own style, I gathered some colorful supplies and got to work.

I love Roman numeral clock faces and found this scrapbook paper at Michaels. I thought it was perfect to accent my planner. I laminated it with self-seal laminating sheets I bought at Walmart.

I used spray glue to attach the laminated clock paper to the inside of the front and back covers.

I added a Planner Pad accessory (self adhesive clear pockets) to the front and back covers right on top of the scrapbook paper. I separated a stack of Sticky Notes by color and attached them to the front cover right over the pocket using double stick tape to hold them into place.

I can still use the pocket to hold notes and misc. items.

Planner Pad sells monthly tabs that I added to first page of each month.

On the Notes and Goals pages in the back of the planner, I added my own Section tabs.

I made them using white card stock and the laminating sheets. Simply write your sections on card stock and cut out. Wrap the laminating sheet around it, leaving extra lamination at the bottom so you can attach the tab to the edge of the paper.

To add color, I added Washi tape tabs. I attached the tape on the back of the paper and tabs I made and just folded the tape over on itself above the tab. I then cut the top edge to the height I needed.

I find that fine tipped pencils, pens and markers work best when you are trying to keep things neat and legible. I use PaperMate Precision mechanical pencils most of the time.

Since I can erase changes instead of cross them out. I also like how it makes my handwriting look. My other favorites are Pentel RSVP pens and Le Pen markers.

I use the sticky tab dividers to mark magazines and books I am reading so I can easily find the pages that interested me again. I sometimes even use them to mark a date in my planner, too.

You can find the sticky tab dividers on Amazon.

Now I am all set and ready to create some exciting new projects to post about. I also have my projects planned on my DIY Wall Calendar. I will be painting a new rug on my mudroom floor, showing you a room I have never showed you before, stripping wallpaper, creating a home office for Ed in our older daughter’s empty room, more DIY chalk paint projects, and so much more.

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225 Comments

Ingrid Harrington says:

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I love the Planner Pad, too. I’ve been using it for many years, over 20 years for sure. I’m retired now, and I’m still using it; it’s just part of me. I use the smaller one now with more colorful pages, which fits my day. I can’t wait for the 2024 to arrive from Amazon so I can set it up.

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Kazzrie says:

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Hi Diane!

I’m wondering if you still use the Planner Pad? I’m in the market for a new planning system and I wonder if you found something you like even more than PP or if it’s still the best system for you….

Thanks!

Kazzrie

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1. Diane Henkler says:
  
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  Hi Kazzie – Of all the pre-made planners I have used, Planner Pad is my favorite. I used it for 4 years, but when my blog became a 24/7 business I needed something customized to how I need to organize not only my day, but all the things I need to specifically do as a blogger. I couldn’t find exactly what I needed so I made my own. It is kind of piece meal, but it works for me. I will create a post about it next week.
  
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  1. Kazzrie says:
    
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    oooh….awesome, can’t wait to read the post!…..how do I make sure I get it?….sign up for your email list?
    
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Gabrielle says:

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I know this is an older post and I am late to the party but I just discovered the planner pad today. I love this post and your blog. So glad that I found it.

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1. Diane Henkler says:
  
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  Hi Gabrielle – Perfect timing for a new planner since the new year will be here before we know it. I love mine and my daughter uses one too. She really decorated hers with lots of colors and decorative papers. Enjoy organizing yours. Thanks for reading my blog.
  
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Ashley says:

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Question!

-Where did you get the sticky tabs? I can’t find them anywhere :(

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1. Diane Henkler says:
  
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  Hi Ashley – I bought them on the site SeeJaneWork.com, but they don’t seem to sell them anymore. You can buy them on Amazon. Here is the link: http://amzn.to/1JVEkOu
  
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2. Tracy says:
  
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  They have them at the container store.
  
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  1. Diane Henkler says:
    
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    Hi Tracy – I will have to check it out the next time I am at the store. Thanks for sharing.
    
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Linda Weeks says:

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maybe the best tip ever – I’ve tried planners before… though I never did such a colorful arrangement! I’ve got to find one of these and make it work like you have. Great blog!

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kenn says:

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I have discovered that Post it notes are great for printing on. You can make a template and then use the post it notes in the printer with pictures of your activity or something that helps you remember an event. Print a picture of a birthday kid in your classroom and post it in your planner on their birthday and still use it to write on.

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Sheryll & Critters. says:

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I forgot to say that my best way to use and keep my planner is just have one and use it everyday. I am lost without one right now, cause I forget everything just about.

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Sheryll & Critters. says:

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Oh I so need a new planner. I have forgot to get one about the last 7 times I should have….. while out to get stuff. I am so tired of forgetting stuff lately. lol

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Kristen says:

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I find if I use it everyday and write in pencil~it helps to keep me organized!!!

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Robyn says:

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I section out each item and each member of my household into different tabs and well as colour code.
Love your planner – looks great!

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Susan Harper says:

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HOLY MOLY!! This organizer post makes me giddy! I have a true “thing” for them…sigh.

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Jennifer Sanford says:

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Although I keep multiple calendars (my phone, a planner, a wall calendar)…the planner keeps me on track the best. I mainly use my phone for alerts and reminders throughout the day (take vitamins, check backpacks and lunch boxes) and the planner helps keeps everyone’s appointments in order. Love being air traffic control at home! :) I really like the layout of this planner though! And it seems way more compact than what I am carrying around! My mom would love it too… :)

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Linda Darling says:

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I recently retired from a management position, but I still have lots of things I am involved in and a planner still helps. You can try any system you want, but if you don’t have a disciplined approach, you are likely not to get the full benefit from your system. I keep my planner open on my home desk to remind me my day starts with a review of my plans for the day, whether I have all items I need to complete the tasks and how I have organized my time. Five minutes is about all I take. Then, each evening, I check my progress from the day and prepare for my next day by reviewing what things I want to accomplish, what I need to do my tasks and organize my time. This maybe takes 10 minutes but makes my time in the morning shorter. This disciplined method of 15 minutes a day helps me stay organized. Sometimes its something simple, like organizing my stops so I get the most accomplished in the shortest amount of time; e.g., the post office is next to the drug store which is on the same road as the grocery store. So I would do these errands on the same day and schedule an amount of time to do them. I find this system works for me and at the end of the day, I tend to feel successful in accomplishing my tasks!

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Sarah says:

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Keep a running to do list. Important things go at the top. Any left get moved to the next day. I would love one of the Planner Pads.

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Shelley says:

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I am in need of being organized. I honestly don’t have a favorite tip. I would love t win. :)

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Casandra says:

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I keep just one calendar for myself, where I put everyone’s items. There’s none in the house. (I had one there before so we could all know what was going on. But wasted effort as no one but me ever looked at it. Every event snuck up on my husband anyways.) And just tell everyone what’s going on.

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Dawn says:

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I am a paper person. If I don’t have it down in my planner, I will forget to do it. I am so glad that there are others that feel the same way.

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Elizabeth says:

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My best tip is to keep it simple and keep it within reach. If you don’t have it, you won’t use it. If you have to think about it too much, you won’t use it.

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Sheena says:

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I love Cozi and Evernote for keeping all of my stuff organized. I also use the calendar on my iPhone synced with my iPad and I have a wall calendar in my kitchen so all my family knows what is going on.

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Susanne says:

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I’m glad I came across your post. Being self-employed, organization and time management are things that are paramount for success, and are things I constantly struggle with. I haven’t yet found a daily planner style I like/that works for me, but the planner pad may be it! I think organizing to-dos into categories is essential for me to keep my calendar/planner organized.

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colleen says:

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All my business and personal activities.

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Debra Lee says:

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Pencil in everything!

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Cheryl G. says:

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I put my hardest task at the top of my list. If I can accomplish it and nothing else gets completed, my day is not all lost! Right now my list is just pen and pad. I would love one of these planners to organize with and can’t wait to add all of the wonderful color. Great post and awesome ideas!

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Jo @ Let's Face the Music says:

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I keep my planner in the car and write everything in it: appts, holidays, B-days, Anniversaries, my weight, what I ate, where I was, etc. Jo @ Let’s Face the Music

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dispack says:

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I keep my calendar right on the kitchen counter! front and center, it helps me a lot, but I still forget to check my day at times. Thanks for the chance to win a planner, I would love to use it!

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Betsy says:

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I love planners and haven’t gotten one for 2014 yet. Hadn’t seen these before, but I love it!

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Deanna says:

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Organized? I think not! Perhaps winning one of these little guys would put me a step in the right direction..until then….I remain unorganized and forgetful! But thanks for sharing your creative tips.

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Cheryl says:

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I was so happy to see so many “planner people” still out there. With all the devices we all carry around, we are becoming scarce. I have used a planner my entire work career. I began with the Franklin Planner, and used that for many years. I actually introduced that to my daughter when she was a young student, and she used it on a daily basis for years. Because I travel and need my planner on a daily basis, I began to look for something more compact. Over the years, I had tried every size, every brand, and now I use various company pages to complete my planner, plus some I custom make for my needs. I am still trying to find a perfect fit! I looked over the website of Planner Pad and think this may work for me!

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Brie says:

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Like you, I like to “beautify” my planner by decorating it with colorful scrapbook paper. I sometimes color code special days. Instead of highlighting or using the Washi tape within the planner, I like to place the multi-colored post-it flags on top of an event that I’ve written in pencil. This draws my attention to the item but is easy to change if the event date changes.

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Brenda a says:

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I make sure to look over my schedule the night before and knock out three things that I over planned. That helps me accomplish so much more on my todo list.

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carol chew says:

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i use different color pens to write different events on each date

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Kathrine says:

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I use a calendar that I can create a column of stuff that happens every week then I can use the squares for dinner ideas, last minute places to be and for my kids to write me notes

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Rene says:

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To help me with a neat and organized view at my weekly planner on two pages, I draw a light pencil line down the page creating 2 blocks for each daily space and write my appointments and daily reminders in the top left, dinner to make and exercise to do in the bottom, to do’s on the right side and places I spent money below that. It helps to color code too.

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Ronnie Gunn Tucker says:

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I use a large calendar with LARGE squares. My attempts at visual aids are stick on STARS! LOL. Things are changing for me in a big way in a few months and I realize I need an honest to goodness planner. Something portable. Thanks for the great ideas.

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Pam T says:

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Love this concept!! color coding works very well for me too. One of my new years resolutions is to be more organized!!! If I don’t win I will have to go out and purchase for myself!!

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Sarah J. says:

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Love these ideas for making this AWESOME looking planner even more fun to use! With 2 elementary kids, room mom in both classes, plus active PTO duties, a planner like this one would be divine for me. My best tip right now is using a small dry-erase calendar on my fridge and outlining the daily events every week. It serves as a quick reminder to look at and writing it all down on Sunday evenings helps me get my brain ready for the week’s events! Would love to add this planner to the mix for better on-the-go use!

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Aubrey says:

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I simply like to use a paper clip to mark where I am in my planner–what’s done is done–and I can open right up to the day/month. Pencils are essential–don’t like the clutter of crossed/scribbled out ink.

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Tracy says:

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I keep a notebook with my planner so I can write out lists, ideas, stories, etc.

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Kim says:

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I find that a dry erase calendar on the kitchen wall helps my husband and me keep track of each others schedules at a glance.

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Debi says:

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I use a wall calendar for dates times and mileage. Unfortunately, i use many different pieces of paper for notes and then try to get them all together. I could use a planner.

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Lorrie says:

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I make a list for each day jotting down things to remember, things to do, appointments, etc. At the end of the day I put a check in front of ones I accomplished and the rest get moved to the following day. (Sometimes at the end of the day, I add things to the list that I did just so I can check them off. This not only makes me feel that I accomplished more that day, but also serves as a sort of journal for the year.)

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Sarah says:

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I like to use different color pens and tab dividers as well. I also wanted to share I made your no sew valance with the foam and it turned out so beautiful! Planning on making some more this weekend! I just found your blog and I love it!

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Lin says:

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Making lists and keeping the list open on my laptop works best for me! Even if I forget the list when I go out, writing and revising it usually helps me remember t-t-d. For appointments, I use a calendar on my laptop/cell phone. Thanks for getting us all thinking about organizing our lives!

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Elizabeth Martinez says:

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I am constantly revising my method as I am not the most organized person. But Pencils, especially mechanical pencils, work best for me and a highlighter.

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Emery says:

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My best tip is to make the organizer pretty and inviting so that I enjoy using it.

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Stacy Riddle says:

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I love the notes section usually found at the end of planners. I keep track of everything there using a tab system. I jot down ossible gifts for friends and family, clothing sizes of my kids/nieces and nephews, home paint colors even a few fabric swatches so that when I am out and about I have everything there.

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Genna Barnes says:

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I have always had a hard time staying organized I have a calender I use on my phone. But I am unable to personalize it muxh! I woyld love to win one of these!!

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Lisa L says:

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Each person in the house has his or her own color ink. This way I can keep up with each child and my husband’s schedule. Color coding is what keeps me in the know.

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Omeshia Green says:

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I like to add pockets to my planner if it doesn’t have them so I have a place to store receipts or letters that I need to keep track of.

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Shirley Johnson says:

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Keep up with it! Every day you need to at least give your planner a quick once-over and clear out the completed items. Getting the trash out of the way makes it that much easier to focus on new tasks.

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Jocelyn says:

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I use so many things! I use those big sticky tabs to mark sections on the side, and little sticky tabs to mark further sections on the top. I use two different page markers (I have a loose leaf planner), paper clips, and those little flags both sticking up and on the pages. Also, I use different colored pens, and sticky notes! I know it seems so complicated, but it works for me!

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Mareko says:

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I’m a big fan of color-coding. It helps me to see at a glance how balanced my day or week will be. I keep my categories pretty simple, and choose my colors strategically. I also use my fave colors for things that I may not be excited about. Somehow I don’t mind writing them in to my plans as much when doing so allows me to use my favorite pens!

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Denise says:

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I love using different color pens/markers…not to color code, but to make it easier to see the different tasks!

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Janine says:

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I use my planner to keep track of my kids activities, errands to run and projects I want to start. I keep it organized by updating it every Monday.

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Bonnie says:

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I’ve used your tip for printing out each month for the 12 months and I have them posted near my desk. I really want a planner to better track my activities and what I need to get done.

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Sophia says:

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I keep my calendar organized by having a set day to plan as well as entering items by using post it notes, until said appointments are confirmed

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Kristan says:

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Oh forgot to mention. I LOVE that you have a Rolodex on your desk! Although I have an Ipad & Surface, I still can’t let go of my Rolodex…LOL

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Kristan says:

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Thank you for such a great article! Love your tips!

I was just about to purchase a planner pad but thought I would try my luck and enter your contest.

I personally find using color tabs and high lighters helps me to keep organized.

I am in the process of opening a new business and thought between work, my blog and launching a new company it would best for me to find the perfect planner.

Thank you for your guidance and I will be keeping fingers and toes crossed.

Happy New Year! :)

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heather says:

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I try to keep mine clean and organized by keeping everything alphabetical and orderly and updated I use white out tape to update and keep clean looking.

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Jo Ann says:

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Using categories always helps me.

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Kathi says:

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Unfortunately I don’t have a best tip on how I keep my planner or calendar organized. When my boys were younger I would tear off a page from one of those big desk blotter type calendars and put it on the frig. That worked then, my youngest is 19 so it’s been a few years ago ;)

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Sarah @ TM2TS says:

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My best tip for keeping a planner organized is to just USE it. Seriously. The more you use it, the more things will start to become organized!

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AnneSATX says:

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Right now I’m using Any.Do and the calendar on my phone. The reminders save me again and again. However, I still like having a paper planner as a permanent record of our lives. Thanks!

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kathy t says:

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iI do not have any fancy system . iI just love planners. i.often do use different colored markers and sticky posts. but thete is no rhyme or reason to the colors, I just like color and everything to be pretty.

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Donnamae says:

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My best tip is to keep my planner handy, and check it every day…and always use post it notes…all over the place! ;)

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Andrea says:

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I wish that I had a great tip to share on keeping a calendar or organizer organized……I don’t. I use to keep a great organizer and color coded items which was helpful. I would love to get back to this and so hope I am a lucky winner! Thank you for the opportunity
Andrea
[email protected]

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Terry says:

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My business requires that I attend several events per month. I color code each month’s tab and write on it the dates I am booked. In a quick glance I can see when I’m busy so I don’t overbook. January is a green tab that reads J 6, 9, 11, 12, 17, 20.

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chelena says:

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thank you for sharing your ideas with us.

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Jeanette says:

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Happy New Year, Diane! A consistent location for the planner within the home is critical. Mine resides on the counter, next to the telephone, in the kitchen (the hub of activity) so that everyone can view it and make notes as needed. A stack of sticky notes and pens/pencils are nearby to facilitate leaving messages or placing them on dates on the planner to serve as temporary earmarkers for events/appointments.

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Mary says:

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I keep tasks for the major areas of my daily life separate on my task lists. “Home/Family” – “Biz” (my husband is a solopreneur and I do all the admin work) – “Work” (I also have a full-time day job/career) – “Church” – and last, but not least, “MeInc” (because I’m always either taking classes or trying to improve my skills, and I am determined that this is my year to venture out on my own!). My current SOP is to put a letter next to the task (h for home, b for biz, etc) and then rank them w/a 1, 2, 3, etc., if needed. My daily lists just contain things I can complete that day; either simple things, or “next steps” of a larger task/project. If I finish w/what I have listed I can go to my master task list and pull out another “next step.”

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Neve Hennessey says:

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Lists, are my friend. I write lists daily, weekly and it seems I often write lists of my lists. As the memory gets older, I find the repetition of what I have set to do keeps me sharp and on task. But without a planner… well, I just don’t know! I believe with the busy lives we lead…they are a must. I really like the look of yours, nice decorating touches too! Happy New Year:)

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Sandy says:

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I started using post it’s this past year along with washi tape in my calendar. I also use the washi tape to block off multiple day events….book fair, vacation, etc. it works out great especially if you have overlapping events. Just cut strips to go across all included days!

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Donna Beard Borges says:

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Hi Diane! I started following you on Pinterest recently. I have to say that last year was the worst year of my life. I was very sick and almost did not make it. But thankfully, today I am doing very well and am back at work full time. I am so excited to start a brand new year. I have so many things I want to do and know I need to get organized. I just finished reading your post and thought. . .I need one of those organizers! I can’t leave you a tip about how I keep myself organized, but I sure would like to win one of your organizers so that maybe next year I could actually give you an awesome tip that I learned from my journey into this new year. . .with the help of your organizer that is! Thanks for your consideration and God Bless!

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Debra D says:

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Diane, so far the last 3 years I have tried to find “my style” for planning. but only know what doesn’t work for me. Your style for planning has given me several ideas that I’m going to try, who knows maybe this will be my year to get organized!!! If I do have a tip it would be to write everything down. I always think I will remember but that just doesn’t happen.

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Sherri says:

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I color code calendar entries – Blue for birthdays/anniversaries, green for bills and paydays, purple for church and youth group things, orange for school/stuff with my son. It makes the monthly calendar pages stand out and I don’t forget to pay bills that way!

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Barbara L. says:

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Keep your ‘to do’ list on a post-it note so it can be moved from one day to another. You won’t have to recopy entries that don’t get completed.

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amanda oneIll says:

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I am In desparate need of organization help! the best thing I do is sit down on Sunday night and go over what I did the week before (to make sure everything was accomplIshed) and ready myself for the week ahead. gives me a lIttle comfort! but I def need the other tIps yall shared!

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Lesli says:

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I use color coded stickers for everything!

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Madison says:

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I color code my planner. I have color coding for my every day life and i keep this in one planner. Then I have a color coding system for my clases and my assignments and due dates have their own special planner.

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Kelly says:

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I love Penmanship and never ever print!

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Elizabeth Fiorentino says:

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I like to color code my different jobs, so at a glance I see where to be for what and when…I also like just writing it all down, it helps me remember things even if I don’t go back and look at them.

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Jessie C. says:

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I use colorful washi tapes to code daily events.

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Dawn Stephens says:

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I’m always making “to do” lists and scheduling my day on paper. Would love to have a planner like this to help organize and keep it all in one place.

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Samantha M. says:

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I’m love to use a mechanical pencil so I can erase any mistakes and keep things neater. That and I am crazy with colour coding with highliters

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Shelley T. says:

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I always make sure to get big amounts of space for each day on my planners and write in pencil but that’s as organized as I get!

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Xanthi says:

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I’ve been searching for a new planner for weeks! This one looks like a winner

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Brittney Burkhart says:

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I find that with my organizing that I use different colors of Washi tape according examples being pink for school red for appointments and blue for teacher work days at work…. Its a great help but very time consuming…. I have also fallen in love with the adhesive post it not pockets they come in very handy!!

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Gwynn says:

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Wow!! Reading all these fabulous tips is inspiring. My New Year’s resolution was to make a conscious effort to be more organized. It’s a terrible feeling to live each day like you know you’ve forgotten something. I’m determined to write it all down. :)

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Kandi McDonald says:

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I have to be honest here. I’ve never had an organizer or a planner. But after years if juggling this will be my first! Thanks for the great tips!

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Ann P says:

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The best tip I can offer is STAY ON TOP OF IT! When I don’t plan or make lists, I don’t seem to accomplish as much. Color coding also keeps me interested, lol.

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Alisha says:

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I love to add post its to my planner as well. I use them for grocery lists and things I need to remember to tell other family members while I am at work. That way I can just give them the post it.

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Mary says:

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I have used the planner pad for 7 years and love it ~ have not found one that I love as much.
I put my little to do’s that can move from one day to the next on a sticky note so I don’t have to rewrite when I don’t get them done.

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Delia says:

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One of the things I love to do to take organized is to minimize important emails or memos to fit my size planner. It makes the information easy access and I keep everything together in my personal planner.

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Ronnie says:

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I too use a mechanical pencil. I also use colored pens for important things like birthdays, anniversaries, weddings. Although we’re in a digital age, I suggest to everyone – use a physical, write it down, planner. I lost my digital planner after 10 years worth of information. It was devasting but a huge lesson learned, even if I have multiple places to plan (phone, computer, planner (in hand).

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Michelle says:

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I color code everything and everyone has their own color even our four legged baby has a color for his vet appointments and grooming.

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Joan says:

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I find that I must keep things simple in order to keep updated. Too complicated and I simply don’t bother. Please enter me for the drawing. I’d love to give this one a try.

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JanL says:

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1. putting phone number with any appointment. saves so much time if need to cancel, reschedule, or just notify if being late. such a relief to know where the contact number is.
2. highlight any travel days in different color highlighter…. then I know not to schedule any local appointments to those days.
3. put the school schedule in my calendar so know where conflicts arise or when I can safely take child to doctor/dentist without missing school

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Christa H. says:

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I am the worst at organizing and the only thing I do to keep me sane is to tell people to send it to me in writing (usually email). That is my cue to put it on my calendar. If it’s not written, it usually won’t get done!

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Deborah Wilkins says:

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I use Microsoft Outllook for both my professional and personal calendar and e-mail. I can keep to-do lists, schedule appointments that go straight to my calendar, and all of my contacts are contained in the same application. I set it up to send me reminders 30 and 15 minutes prior to each appointment. I travel for my business and am able to keep all of my flight, hotel and rental car info in the application. We are in the process of planning to build a new home. I am keeping vendors I may use organized in the address book under a “new home” listing. I could not live without it.

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Bunny says:

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I find that using colorful mini stick-it notes helps keep me organized by marking different events and tasks.

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Mary V. says:

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I do a lot of list making, writing on the calendar, and using lots of your organizing tips. If I do a project that I have not listed down for that day. I write it in and mark it off. Makes me feel more accomplished! I always need help. Thanks for your blog!

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Stacy says:

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I keep my calendar organized by color coding each family member and also by writing appointments on small post-its so if they get changed I can just move the post-it to the new date.

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Cathleen says:

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This may sound silly, but I always start my to do list with something nearly done or super easy to complete. I find having at least one item crossed off quickly motivating…

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Margaret says:

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I use lots of post-its to add details to daily entries. It might be a grocery list or a to do list for that day…making it more mobile for me to grab the post- it and go. I rarely forget anything when I use that method.

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Miriam Schulman ( SchulmanArt) says:

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Hey there! I love the planner pad! I turn the used pages into an art journal by painting over them with gesso. Love it! http://schulmanart.blogspot.com/2014/01/list-words-that-touch-your-soul.html

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Christyn says:

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I use color coded gel pen markers for each memeber of the family. I should use pencil, but then it’s harder to track what event belongs to which person….oh the challenge! :)

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Lynn Dix says:

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My tip for planning is not a secret.. make an exhaustive list of all your ToDos, then classify them as (Important, Not Important) x (Today, This Week, This Month, This Year). Then your ToDos for today will be self-evident…and yes many of the Not Important items will eventually fall off the lists but because you’ve put them on paper you can stop trying to remember them!

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LaFawne says:

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Rather boringly, I only use a small monthly calendar that I write in and keep in my desk drawer. Not a lot of appointments for me and my husband, so it works nicely. I do put monthly reminders on my iphone for the dog’s pills. Gotta take care of the most important household member!

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Christine E. says:

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For me, it is writing things down. If I don’t write it down, it does not happen. Even written on a post it note helps me.

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Heather says:

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Honestly, I tend more toward disorder in my schedule but am always trying new ways to get a grip!! From my plastics cabinet in my kitchen to my cluttered brain, I am all for getting organized! I would love to try a better scheduling system and was totally jazzed to see so many others like me who LOVE putting pen/pencil to paper rather than just relying on virtual options. I think pairing the old and new technologies is the best way to succeed!

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Heather says:

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I color code EVERYTHING! It makes my life so much easier

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1. Heather says:
  
  at
  
  Just saw your post–looks like we answered twice! ;) Need to try color coding around here!
  
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Erika says:

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I use the simplest system at work to keep track of my “to -do’s”; I just used a plain spiral notebook to write down all my tasks, and highlight things as I accomplish them. SO simple, but the best way I’ve found to really keep track of things. It’s so easy to glance at a couple of pages.

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Pam Fulford says:

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I also so use Any.Do app on my phone also. Its an awesome app for keeping you organized. I love all the color your using..what a great jump start for each day. I have used the Planner Pad and really like it. I would love to be the winner..

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Gina says:

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I use a regular planning calendar for appts and to do lists. I use the extra note section to ‘dump out my brain’ so I wont forget anything. Being an adult with ADHD I have to get it on paper or I will never remember. I have a ‘go bag’ in addition to my handbag that always goes with me for anything I might need during the day. My planner goes in it so I always have it with me. For now this is the best I have come up with but I really love your system.

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Lynn B says:

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My best tip to keep organized us to “take time”. I find that when I’m rushed or super busy, I don’t take the time to put things in place. When I use discipline and make myself take time – I stay organized and don’t have lots of little bits here and there.

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Angela Bowman says:

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I always write in pencil on my calendar that way if I need to move or change anything it can be erased. Keeps my calendars always looking neat. I currently use Foray brand calendars, but would love to try out a Planning Pad! Love your blog!

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Marie Diana says:

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Ok– I am reading this post & I am actually salivating over this planner & your tabs, stikys, paperclips & Washi- LOVE LOVE IT

It speaks to all parts of me — But I digress– At present I organize by using 4 -count them 4 seperate calandars!?!?! how NUTZ is that – inevitably double booking my self numerous times during the year & don’t even get me started on my penchant for Lists –Oy!! Any way I REALLY hope you randomly chose me for this – because we (meaning the planner & I) are meant to be together -and I’m too broke to buy one- HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

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Ashleigh Hall says:

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I use different colored pens for each childs activities and a different color pen for mine!!

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Jane says:

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I found the best for the entire family was to use a large 22″ x 17″ desk calendar and attach it to the side of the refrigerator – somewhat of out sight from everyday life, but still very accessible. Everyone was assigned a color with activities/times highlighted. We never missed an appointment, hockey practice, flute lesson, Civil Air Patrol activity, etc.

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Pattyjoe says:

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Love using cozi.com. The whole family has access to shopping lists and calendar. Whoever is at the store can see what is needed.

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Carolyn B says:

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Love the planner! Yours looks so neat! I just use a monthly calendar and colored pens…pretty boring! LOL

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Kathy B says:

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I love your website and you have inspired me to try some fun things around the house. I can’t get your diningroom table finish out of my head so I’m sure that will be showing up here real soon.
As far as planning I use two things. One, electronic and two I write lists and then sometimes lose them. I need this planner…

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Joanne B. says:

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Wow. Am I envious of your organization! And your colorful style too! I also like using mechanical pencils- I find it improves my handwriting and the ability to erase ‘mistakes’ or make changes feeds my perfectionist (I wish) tendencies. I would love to try this planning technique out! I don’t have a lot on my plate “to do”- but I have a lot in my mind that I WANT to do- maybe getting it onto paper will help the process!

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Eileen says:

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I set up my addresses by state and by category, ie, home improvement , medical, etc

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Joyce Ward says:

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I like to tuck a pencil pouch in the back of my calendar ( could use a planner for sure) to hold my favorite pens, pencils, small flat calculator, post it’s, few paper clips, binder clips, & an extra magnetic jot it down pad for notes- thank you ever so very much for this giveaway:-)!

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Fritzy Dean says:

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Diane, I am smitten with the large colorful striped paper clips! Can you tell me where I can purchase them?
I LOVE your blog!

Thanks for all you do, Fritzy Dean

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Sharon Pisiakowski says:

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I keep a paper and online calendar and hope that between the two I don’t miss anything.

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Mandy says:

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A tip I do not have, I only wished I could become organized enough to keep it all in one place. I leave notes on the back of mail leaving myself ofter lost without a plan. I could use one of these!

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Becky garrison says:

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I love using a planner, started when I taught school. Try the paper mate ink joy pens. I think they are awesome!

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Cheryl Mayers says:

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I put notes on my refrigerator which doesn’t really help but at least I know where the list is. I really do need an organizer to help me keep on track with exercise, meal planning & decluttering which absolutely needs to get done this year!!

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Sally says:

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With the kids gone and just the 2 of us, post-its on the island is my low-tech planner. No wonder I forget things!

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Mary Eileen Rommeney says:

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Since I have begun working, I have discovered that I need to add appointments to AnyDo.com, which I love, and the Outlook calendars I use at home and at work. I can share them and be aware of all the little things . The little ones are the kind that tend to get overlooked!

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debra saturday says:

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My favorite thing is using color markers to designate the person for whom the appt. or day is for. i.e. (purple color) for anything me. (orange) any thing for hubby..etc. My eye sees the color and I already know who it is for.

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JamieK says:

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I too use a mechanical pencil as it seems my life changes daily. This post has inspired me to become more organized this year! Thanks for the opportunity.

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Jacque says:

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The best way I can keep a organized is to actually use a planner! With the new baby I need this badly!

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Cheryl Duffy says:

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USE IT!!!!!

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Margaret says:

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I’m a neat freak of sorts, so to keep my planner/calendar organized (and neat), I always write in pencil. That way, if something changes in my schedule, I don’t have to mark through and then write.

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Margaret R says:

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I use the calendar and the Any Do apps on my iPad. Every week on Sunday, I write anything my hubs needs to know on the wall calendar in the kitchen. It is posted right above the coffee pot. When he makes his coffee, he looks at the calendar to see what I have him doing that day. It works better than me telling him five times to remind him.

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Marcia says:

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I do not have a tip, but need all the help I can get!

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Susan says:

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I make sure I check items off once I accomplish them, it keeps me moving through me lists! Every year my New Year Resolution is to become more organized!

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Christy says:

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I have to keep it with me everywhere! If I don’t, then I think “I’ll remember to write this down” and I don’t and then I get frustrated and end up just winging it for the rest of the year. I can’t tell you how many planners I have where January is all marked up, February starts to wane, and June through December are totally blank!

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Jackie says:

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I just found your site and am going to follow, organization is a need at our house. My husband recently moved his office to our home taking a room and rearranging our home, time, schedule, everything feels out of place and a bit chaotic. Now we are painting, and purging, I just felt the need to move everything and adjust to modern technology and his schedule. 2014 is my year to get organized even thru having him and our business around me 24 hours, 7 days a week. HELP! I so need some daily guidance! I look forward to your posts!

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Michelle B. says:

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I NEED to get myself organized and this planner looks like something I could incorporate easily. I have a small cookie business and I get requests in a manner of ways and if I had this with me I could write the orders down no matter where or when I get the order.

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Frances says:

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JUST DO IT! Half the battle is writing it down…the. Check it each morning and plan your attack!

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Samantha says:

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I use tabs and such to keep organized, but one thing that has carried over for me from back in my Mary Kay days, is blocking days out that I won’t book anything on. That is so helpful, I can always release those days, but in a quick hurried glance, I usually see the block and know, don’t book it. Its good to leave ‘margins’. ;)

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stephanie says:

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I need some where to start. I have home calendar, email reminders, and I am still missing things. I am hoping I can learn from you, get organized, and not miss another appointment.

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kat says:

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That looks wonderful. I just love the idea of a blank calendar. And there is something very different about writing an appt something down rather than tapping it into an electronic system.

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Christine Williams says:

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Check and recheck daily. Keep things checked off and use PENCILS lol.

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Jean says:

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I’m horrible at being organized-I want to do better! However, I must use pencil (for clean changes) and I have to keep the planner with me!

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Dee says:

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I love the way you personalized your planner! I attended a seminar on planning years ago and have stuck to the basic premise that I was taught: Letter everything on my To Do List with A – Must Do, B – Hope to do, C – Would like to do and D – Probably not going to happen. Next you prioritize each letter with a number so you know what is the most important thing on your A list, etc. What doesn’t get done you transfer to another day that month. It helped me feel that I wasn’t forgetting the important things in life!

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Amanda says:

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Write things down! I always assume I can remember what I need to do, but after having three kids my mind isn’t what it used to be. :)

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Sara says:

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Usually I keep different calendars, one for teaching, one for our family, and one for my photography. However, since my husband was in farming accident and our life has been turned upside down my goal is to keep everything in one place and color code everything; doctor appointments, birthdays, school details, etc.

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Amanda Bruner says:

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I keep organized by writing everything down, using colored notes and cleaning my planner our weekly.

Take care,
Amanda
[email protected]

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Amber Hubble says:

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Hi,,,, I also use color in my planner to engage and organize. I use my colors to signal priority of each entry. I love writing things down so I can see them. This year is big because I’m getting back to my blog and am determined to make it grow! I would dearly love one of your planners!

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Beth Coburn says:

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I need a better system than what I’m currently using which is mostly in my head and written down on a cheapy wall calendar…As always, love your ideas!

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Carol says:

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I use a calendar on my tablet for appointments and sticky notes at my desk for quick reminders. Seems to work for me, but have always loved writing in planners. Kind of miss it …

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Patty says:

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“GET ORGANIZED” is a ‘carry over’ I seem to have each New Year! I wish I had a tip to share but hope this year, my efforts will be successful in keeping this resolution!

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Cathy says:

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I use colored pens, one representing each category…one color for birthdays, one for appt, etc.

I’ve never heard of this system but looks fab!!

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chrissy farnan says:

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I also use colors to write different things in. I also use Washi tape and write directly on it in the calendar. SO fun!!!

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Kim says:

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I bought this planner last year at your suggestion because the smart phone calendar was driving me crazy, always entering, moving around took too much time AND I like to see the “big picture” which is impossible with an electronic device. BUT…I bought a bigger version this year to try because I felt I didn’t have enough room in the personal (6×8) planner. Now that I have the bigger one I’m afraid it’s TOO BIG. I don’t know if I’ll ever be happy. :( I do know I need lots of visual reminders so I may try adding some tabs per your suggestion.

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Paula Miller says:

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Definitely using a pencil so I can erase, but also color coding so I know at a glance what category the notes fall into.

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Laura Farhy says:

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I use pinterest to help keep me organized: I like to draft out a plan for each room virtually via a pinterst board, and then hunt for bargains at the dollar store and clearance sections to bring my vision to life.

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Beth D says:

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When my children were younger with loads of activities, we had a calendar with huge blocks for each day, and everyone added there activities. Now that they’re out of the house, I’m ready for something smaller. It seems that your system may work for me too. Thanks for the opportunity to win!

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Patricia says:

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I love your ideas!! I have tried numerous planners and all have failed miserably. Luckily, I am an amazing micro-manager so I keep everything and everyone on task. Ok the truth is, I am tired of remembering everything for my entire household and family. We are a family of 5. The hubby and 3 teenagers are killing me. :) I need to put something in place, like a command center and let everyone contribute to their lists and to be able to check if they have something scheduled at their convenience. So if something goes amiss, it’s their problem to fix. I just can’t do it anymore. I wonder if something like your planner would work for that. I love color and love labels, labels and more labels. Sorry for the rant…but I sure feel better!! lol. Thanks Diane

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Mary Ann says:

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Need a new planner for 2014. I like to color code and also use mechanical pencils and Pentel RSVP pens. Always a process to stay organized.

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Lynn says:

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I keep a list on an app and look at it daily to try to remember what I need to do for the day. Wish I were more organized!

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Brenda says:

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Oh how I wish I had a clever idea to add. When I taught, I used my school panner to keep track of personal items as well, but now that I’m retired, I haven’t found a new process. I have too many separate lists and really need to consolidate. Help!

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Kellie says:

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I can’t believe I have never heard of this company and I do like a good planner.

Thanks for posting.

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Kathleen Wadsworth says:

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Please!! Help me get organized! I am desperate! I get your email and follow your blog.

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Fran says:

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My best tip is to go with ONE planner–trying to use several for different functions can lead to missing an important event/to-do if you look at the “wrong” planner—having just ONE master with everything solves that problem.

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Ceil says:

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Diane, I would love to have one of these. Love how you personalized yours!
Ceil

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Christina Makri says:

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Happy New Year Diane with lots of creations :)

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Lisa Kear says:

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I am SO addicted to planners! My favorite kind has a month spread over two pages but then has a weekly/daily planner behind each month. This allows me to see a whole month at a glance but then I can go into more detail on the actual day. One thing I have learned is to always include a phone number with a posting of any kind of appt. (doctor, dental, haircut, etc.). If I need to reschedule, I easily have the phone number there. When my kids were young I used a different color of ink for each child. Lastly, when purchasing after Christmas items for the next hear, I create a list of what I bought and who I had in mind to give it to. Even if I buy wrapping paper or items for myself to use at Christmas, I still record this. I put this list in my planner behind the December tab.

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Beth says:

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Oh my gosh, oh my gosh!!! I love these ideas for jazzing up my Planner Pad, which I have been hooked on, ever since I read your first mention of it way back when! So I don’t need to win one, I just want to say THANK YOU!!!

I love my Planner Pad, it is THE perfect time organizing tool I have needed. And now I am psyched to add a little more color and personality to it (in addition to the really beautiful art sticker via Etsy I like to select each year for the front cover). Thanks so much!

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Roxane Johnston says:

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I use color coding; pens and post its

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Carol says:

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YOU’VE INSPIRED ME!!!

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laura russell says:

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Great blog! So glad I found you.

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Barbara Freitas says:

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I make notes in my planner for just about everything…and refer to it off and on all day. Being retired….I especially need to check my planner first thing in the morning, so I know what day it is! ;o)
I prefer mechanical pencil, or fine tip colored pen….and I use a highlighter for important appointments.
It would be nice to try a new style planner for 2014.
Good luck to all who enter this perfect giveaway!

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Suzan says:

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I use two highlighters on the pages of my planner. After I enter my notes, I highlight the “must do” in pink and the secondary important things in yellow. If I can’t check off the yellow highlighted items, I roll those to the next page until they are completed.

Thanks for such a nice giveaway!

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Jamie says:

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I use a paperclip to keep my place in my planner.

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Morgan says:

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I use tons of sticky notes that I can add my to-do lists onto. I never forget what I have to get done if it’s staring me in the face!

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Sharon Eberlin says:

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Writing it down and making lists keep me on track. I use electronic as well as I don’t always have my planner with me.

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Anne Boykin says:

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Hi Diane, Thanks for the giveaway! I’d love to try it but I’m not sure I need it anymore since I’m retired, lol.

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Sue says:

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Color coding and tabs help me organize my planner. Love your blog!

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Lynn says:

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I have adopted a practice from a calendar (brand not recalled) I used many years ago. Clip a bit off the corner of “by-gone” days/weeks/months … whatever unit your calendar/planner uses.
It makes it very quick and easy to get to your current schedule!

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Debbie says:

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Wonderful planning system. I should have used that when I was teaching.
You have organized your events quite nicely.

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Fatima Teixeira says:

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Sadly I’m not in US, so I can’t enter. But I wish lucky to everyone! =)

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Jessica Purevich says:

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I’ve found in my planner to use washi tape on the calendars for extended projects. It helps keep my separate days for day-to-day work.

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Judy H. says:

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I have to make the outside of my planner as attractive as possible. Not only is it an creative project, but it keeps me interested and motivated to use my planner daily. I also like to have large, well titled, colored tabs. I often use a lesser number of categories than the planner offers or divide another one into more categories using my tabs. I always like to leave a fairly large section of one planner as a note keeping area. I’m much more inclined to remember something when I write it down into the planner rather than having sticky notes abounding.

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Jackie Lee says:

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I like to add an envelope to each month for receipts and paperwork. And of course using only fine point pencils and pens is a must for me! They make mr feel “professional” for some silly but enjoyable reason!

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Sue says:

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I don’t have a system, but I do try to write appointments and activities down on a wall calendar and also on a purse-size calendar for when I’m on the go. I love the ideas shared here and would love to own one of these planners as I haven’t bought a 2014 one yet. I’m also excited by the colored tabs and look forward to perusing the See Jane Work site. Thanks for the inspiration and Happy New Year!

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Julie says:

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I’m visual too & use the colored tabs as reminders. Great post!

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Pat Todd says:

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I need my “big picture” to be neat and clean, so I use mechanical pencils, four in a pack from Dollar Tree. I love them!

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Rhonda says:

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To be honest… I just need help! I make list after list after list. I have used planners, but then I slack off. Life comes at me day by day, and I definitely NEED a method. Those little lists slip away and then I find myself with three meetings on the same day and in desperate need of someone to pick up my seven-year-old from school.
I’d also like some help in dealing with my PAPER MONKEY. If you or your readers have successful methods, PLEASE share. I end up taking pictures of all of my lists before tossing them, but even digital storage takes a toll on my waning memory.
I’m sure other people would probably be better with the planner than I might be, but if you can help me, I will be a success story to be proud of. I have potential… need and desire… and I’d love someone to save me from this life I refer to as treading water.
Even if I do not win, I would gladly buy the planner if anyone (or you, Diane!) could help me get on the firm ground of planning ahead.
Thanks so much! Love your ideas… and comments provided by your followers.
Rhonda

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Temme says:

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I like to color code and doodle symbols or arrows pointing to important things to remember. Sometimes I even get creative with the description titles for appointments.
Last year I used my calendar on my phone and color coordinated family members with appointments. The downside to the phone calendar is that you can’t see everything going on that week and you have to click on the day to see the events scheduled for that day.
See your planner has made me think seriously about going back to the good old fashion paper planner. Hoping that my name is drawn!

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Lisa Kubin says:

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I use a wall calendar with large space to remind me of events that are coming up.

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Cindy says:

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I carry a pocket daily agenda with me, every year I buy a new one & transfer all my important info into the new one. Anything like birthday, Dr appointment, school breaks, last manicure, hair/ highlighting appointments. I love this little pocket calendar.

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Monika says:

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One question – how do you make sure to always have your calendar with you? I think that’s the thing that always throws me off with paper calendars – which is why I prefer an online and family sharable calendar. I don’t have to remember to bring anything with me (other than my phone) and I always have my calendar at hand. Do you always leave this planner at home or do you take it when you are out and about?

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Monika says:

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I keep my daily planner/calendar organized by only putting appointments on it, which leaves out goal setting. For goals and “things to do” I still use scraps of paper that actually work quite well for me, but I’m always on the look out for a new system!

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Ann says:

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I use color coding and also post it notes that easily transfer day to day.

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Dana says:

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With a FF hubs and 3boys colored highlighters and pens are my best friend. Just say the word and my brains clicks the color leading me right to it ;0)

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Julie says:

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I have no good tips. I do use a lot of post-it notes so I can move notes if they don’t get done or need to be postponed. I love your ideas and must get some more mechanical pencils.

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debbi says:

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I like to use Cozi.com for online organizaiton for my family… but looking for a hard copy planner for the house! :)

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Daniela Walsh says:

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First of all, I love the washi tape tabs!

And I use one planner that is ONLY for my blog. It helps to not have other events or personal things in it. Thanks for the giveaway!

xo
Daniela
Put A Bird On It
http://iputabirdonit.blogspot.com

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Cathy King says:

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I use full adhesive Post it notes to have a condensed list of Must Do on each page. I mark off as done and can move to the next day if an item takes more than one day.

Happy New Year and thanks for the giveaway!!

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Claudia says:

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I am a list maker, I use colored pens and flags to mark the super important things and I use the plastic pouches for receipts etc.

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Debby says:

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What keeps me more organized in my planner is filling everything at the first of the year and then every Sunday night for each week. then I try to keep everything ..apts.,birthdays, project deadlines updated as they come up.

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Brenda says:

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I assign each person in our family a color along with colors for medical and weekly occurring events like youth group and AWANA. Love this planner that you showed.

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Janell Mithani says:

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I LOVE to plan my year! Even though my life doesn’t always go as planned. :) Pencil is definitely a must, this year I am using colored pencils from my drawing workshop kit to keep things organized. I also use a tiered system with categories and sub categories.

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marly says:

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I use color coding: I don’t have a blog, but different colored tabs for birthdays, anniversaries, etc. work very well.

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Brandi says:

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I don’t think this is the best way, but I use a calendar and different color highlighters to make sure that things stand out better.

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Carmen Skyles says:

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I have found that if I write it down it keeps me organized. I also take my planner in my purse anytime I leave home. I have not bought one for 2014 yet so I have my fingers crossed. Thank you for such a great giveaway!

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Kelly Espinoza says:

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I use different colored pens to keep track of different events.

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Beth H says:

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I assign each person a color for the master calendar in the kitchen. It’s right by the tea pot so I can look at it in the morning. It keeps things a little more sane in the morning!

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Nicole says:

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Hmmmm… I don’t have a best tip–that’s why I’m following so many organization blogs! This planner looks like it might work well for our homeschool planning.

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Denise Cox says:

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Relentless pruning and double checking behind myself are a must!

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Charlotte Grimes says:

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I’ve found that color coding works for me.

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Joy says:

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I, too, use a mechanical pencil. Love the fact that I can erase!

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