5 Easy Steps to Transform a Blank Page Into a Planner Page

As I write this, I'm thinking about tomorrow. It's going to be a Monday. I'm working on reducing stress, so having a plan to start the week is essential.

I often use pre-created daily forms of some sort, but I am not too uppity to just use blank paper!

I have five key steps that transform a page of blank paper into a form for making a schedule.

1. Double Hole Punch

Double hole punch the blank page, as I've explained before, so that the blank page can go on the side of the planner OPPOSITE tomorrow's weekly entry.

2. Fold in 1/2 (or in 1/4s or 1/3s)

Fold the page, keeping the edges even, to create straight lines.

TIP: Find a layout that you love on Pinterest and copy it by folding the page accordingly.

In the example below, I folded once in half, to make a vertical middle line. I dotted the line for my own visual help. Compare the middle, dotted line to the horrible hand drawn line on the left by the rings.

The folded, dotted line looks so much better!

3. Label

I labeled the upper right corner is the day/date, the times (6 a.m. to 9 a.m., right between the dots), a.m. specific tasks, p.m. specific tasks, and menu (all on the right).

The left column is for my tasks (from top to bottom) and my prep list (or things to bring out of the house with me, from bottom to top).

4. Add Monthlies

Monthlies hold my appointments. Obviously, they are the backbone of a daily plan for most people.

TIP: If you have very few appointments, choose a task-based layout instead of my appointment-based one.

Once I add appointments to the daily plan, I strike them out on the monthly calendar pages.

5. Add Weeklies

Weeklies contain my tasks. As I recopy them, I move any that are time-specific to my a.m. or p.m. list.

The best thing about this set-up?

I can change it EACH DAY to reflect my priorities and whether it is an appointment, task, or list heavy day!

For more great Giftie organizing and planning posts, make sure to follow me on Pinterest!

Etcetera.

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