DIY & HOW TO

How to Use a Monthly Planner

How to Use a Monthly Planner

Learn how to use a Monthly Planner to make the most of every month in five simple steps.

Light planning, work projects, special projects, scheduling, event planning, and more, the Erin Condren Monthly Planner is a powerful addition to the LifePlanner™ for every type of project—personal to professional. Here are five ways to help you use this calendar + notebook combo in one to get organized, reduce stress, and reach your monthly goals.

Step 1: Decide how you're going to use your monthly planner.

A Monthly Planner is an incredible tool when it comes to tackling specific or specialized projects like budgeting or building out a content calendar. First, decide what your goals are. Second, set your intention for planning. Then, start planning!

For more creative monthly planning ideas, check out 10 Ways to Make a Monthly Planner Work for You .

Before you begin, read on for more helpful tips to set yourself up for successful planning in your Monthly Planner.

Step 2: Set goals in the two-page goals spread.

Start your planning by setting your intentions and goals. Whether you're setting goals by the month or targeting specific topics like work, health, finances, etc., set your goals in the 12-box goal-setting spread. Break up a year of goals by using one box for each month of the year.

Set goals in the two-page goals spread

For more goal-setting tips, check out How to Set Goals.

Step 3: Add dates to your monthly calendar.

Next, add important dates to your monthly calendars. From birthdays to holidays, exams to anniversaries, note those important days you don't want to forget.

Add dates to your monthly calendar

You may also like How to Organize Your Calendar and How to Use a Calendar for Time Management.

Step 4: Use the note pages for jotting thoughts, list-making, bullet journaling, and more.

Take advantage of the additional note pages between the monthly spreads and combine the best parts of a Monthly Planner with the structure of a notebook.

Use the note pages for jotting thoughts, list-making, bullet journaling, and more

Step 5: Customize your Monthly Planner.

Create a personalized planner that's perfect for you. Customize your cover and add on the extras like storage pockets, snap-in to-do lists, sticky notes, whatever you like! You can even add on more note pages to fit your needs.

Customize your Monthly Planner

Don't forget to accessorize with new, stylish planner accessories! There are so many ways to stylize while you organize and expand your planning potential with this must-have Monthly Panner!

Need more organization inspiration to get started? Check out How to Start Planning, then explore best-selling monthly planners and customize one to match your style and schedule!