5 Daily Habits to Increase Productivity

When it comes to productivity, we often think it involves stuffing so much into each hour to squeeze out every last second.  For the most part, however, we should approach the idea of productivity in a work smarter not harder approach.  Productivity isn't about squeezing every last second out of each minute it's about intentionally using each minute, one day at a time, to move towards our goals. 

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

Making the most out of your day includes taking care of yourself. so let's talk about how we can be more productive while also being mindful of our own physical and emotional needs.

Plan & prioritize

I talk a lot about the importance of morning routines here on the blog!  Starting your day off on the right foot means knowing which foot needs to hit the ground first.  Plan and prioritize what needs to happen in your day by making a list and editing it.  You may find that prep the night before helps you prioritize the next day.  You may find that making time in the morning to create your to-do list is best.  Just take 5-10 minutes to make your plan.  Your head will be on straight and you'll have guidance through the day.  You may also find diffusing something like Rosemary, Lemon, and Peppermint gives you focus & pep in the morning.  (Read more about essential oils here.)

Make Time to Move

Exercise gets you energized.  Moving and stretching wakes up your mind & body, plus all that mumbo jumbo about exercise and endorphins can help you stay on track during the day.  I find that when I get moving in the morning I'm more ready for the day - tasks are tackled easier, I'm more even tempered, and I'm more alert.  I also find when I get moving after work I've released any tension built up for the day and found a bit of a second wind.  Making time to move not only crosses exercise off your list (a win for productivity) but it also gets you energized to do more.  Just don't over extend yourself!  A light work out - most often I prefer yoga - can help you connect into yourself.  You can also use this time as a meditative space to connect in with your mind & body.

Clean Everyday

Again, we'll be marking something off the checklist but we'll also be creating a less cluttered work space.  After all, a cluttered desk is a cluttered mind...right?  If you've ever been distracted by the mess on your desk or thought you've got to do the dishes before you can get anything done, coming up with a simple cleaning routine can help ease your mind.  I clean for 30 minutes each evening and find that this gives me the peace of mind to get things done.  I'm not stressed over what I haven't done because I know I've done something and I'll get to something else tomorrow. PS. If you need any inspiration to get in a quick clean, look up clutter quotes on Pinterest....then reexamine your life, they are super deep.

Practice Gratitude

When we're happy & when we feel successful, we're more likely to get stuff done!  One thing I've been doing recently is saying thank you....out loud....to the universe (and to others as well) when something happens that I've been working towards.  I've mentioned before about creating a vision board and taking action toward bringing the things you want into your life, but what do you do when they actually happen?  You say THANK YOU and you appreciate the opportunity.  This reflection shows you your capabilities and helps you realize when saying no serves you.  You don't have to get elaborate with your gratitude practice just be mindful of when to express your thanks and say it openly & freely!

Go to Bed Earlier

You may think that cutting yourself short on time in the day means you're not getting as much done, but it is just as important to shut it down as it is to rev it up.  If you've started your day on the right foot, you want to end it there too.  Unplugging and unwinding will free up your mind of clutter so get off the computer (I'm typing this in bed right now, so do what I say...not as I do!) and do something low tech - bedtime yoga, night time stroll, read a book, sip tea on the front porch.  Self care is important and so is a good night's sleep.  Diffuse something like Lavender and DoTERRA's Breathe for a restful sleep.  If you've gone to bed earlier you can totally plan and prioritize your morning.

And with that, we've come full circle.

Productivity is one of those quality over quantity things - you get out of it what you give into it.  Create a space for you to be your best self and that will allow you to be productive.  Learn what serves you and what isn't in your best interest.  This is a constant flow of self editing as well.  Try out new routines, adjust to new surroundings, incorporate new practices....just don't give up on yourself!

If you want more productivity tips, check out all the productivity posts on the blog here.

What daily practices have you noticed impacting your productivity?  Are there any systems you recommend for productivity?

xoxo, Moe

5 Happy Planner Extras for Productivity

I've been knocking things off my to do lists left and right recently and I think its because I've been using my planner to the best of my ability!  This has to do with a a couple of things, I think - one of which being all of the productivity extras from the Happy Planner to make the whole thing work for you.  As you know, I use the Mini Happy Planner exclusively and I am so happy that there are a ton of extras for this size!

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

Three Parts to Productive Planning

When it comes to the actual doing of the stuff there are a few important points that need to fall into place in order to mark these things off of our to do list.  It isn't just enough to make the list, we've got to organize, prioritize, and make plan to execute.

Organization - organizing your tasks, due dates, and appointments means you'll know exactly where each item lies so that you can find it quickly & easily when needed.

Prioritization - prioritizing you tasks and events means that what needs to get done first, happens first.  Then you can push other things to the back burner or reevaluate when something else might need to be done.

Project Planning - this sort of has to do with execution.  If you outline what needs to be done, you'll be able to execute things in a timely manner rather than stumble over tasks.

The Happy Planner line has quite a few things to help us get through all three of these to make sure we're reaching our goals!

Planner Extras for Productivity

My Mini Happy Planner is a conglomeration of quite a few add-ons & extension packs, which is great because the whole system is disc bound!  I can add and remove pages as needed to create a functional system that works in my best interest.  Not to mention there are a ton of functional sticker packs out there that make organization, prioritization, and execution colorful as well.

Project Pages

These are new to my arsenal and I haven't quite mastered them yet as I prefer the project stickers found in some of the sticker books.  However, these guys can be great for long term or multi-step projects that need a little bit more attention.  By creating an actionable time line, you'll be better able to execute tasks to complete your project or reach your goal.

These inserts feature a colorful page with sections for sketching & brainstorming, planning action steps, and assigning due dates.  Since these guys are the same design back & front, I like to add in another page of graph paper for extra notes.  I wish the back was dot or grid paper!  That would make my day!

Can Do Monthly Extension Pack

The Mini Monthly Extension pack I use for social media planning mimics the style of the limited edition Trend Setter planner.  This 6 month extension has an undated monthly view, a sort of monthly tasks view, daily to do pages, then two blank lined pages at the back.  

I've customized the task view with some letter stickers from the Happy Planner sticker books and other alphas.  This helps me break down all the checklists in to specific areas organizing my content into groups.  This insert also lets me prioritize a top three for the month so I'm on track!

Personally I haven't found a use for the daily to do pages as they don't seem to fit in with how I use my planner.  But I am thinking about using them to plan my Instagram posts.  The blank lined pages at the back I am thinking about pairing with the project pages!

Daily pages

These guys are great to break down your busy daily schedule but they can also be used as an extra dashboard if needed.  Featuring an hour by hour breakdown starting at 6am, you'll be able to organize your day efficiently.  

Areas for prioritization include a daily focus & two checklist sections.  One of the checklists says Do This Later which can help to get tasks out of your brain but not necessarily scheduled right away.  The back of these inserts features a brain dump section that is great for notes during the day or outlining bigger tasks.

Productivity Stickerbooks

Currently there are two productivity stickerbooks from the Happy Planner and I love both of them!  The original sticker book features project planning & goal setting stickers allowing you to outline projects & priorities.  The second sticker book focuses more on habits, time management, and organization.

Both work well in the mini or classic size planner and are perfect to add to the graph filler paper to create your own inserts.  The original Productivity book does come in a mini size, though I find those to be a little too wide and not as aesthetically pleasing as the stickers designed for the classic planner.

Focus Half Sheets

This is something brand new to my Mini Happy Planner and its not even designed for it!  These Focus Half sheets are designed to fit the Classic Size planner but a little trim keeps all the important bits and it fits right in the mini.  The front page is great for a targeted goal list for the week, outlining the top five must do tasks.

The best part about these is that the back is graph paper - perfect for all my notes.  It can also be used as an extra project planning section or to outline the steps of future tasks.  I was  using this as a wellness tracker/insert but that didn't seem to work out too great for me. I'm thinking of making it a brain dump sheet to put all that tasks that float through my brain but that don't need action just yet.

Housing everything all in one place is made so much easier by these different add ons, extension packs, and the disc bound system of the Happy Planner line. Some of the extras I mentioned can be found in a cool little bundle here on Amazon (yay for Prime shippng!) but you can save the most when you shop Happy Planner stuff over on Blitsy.

The only way to use a planner is to find a system that helps you rather than hinders you.  I like to write a lot out - I am a multi step person - so having specific areas that can help me organize, plan, and execute means that I'm working on my goals successfully!

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If you'd like to read more about productivity, check out these posts on the blog.  You can also join the Five Sixteenths | Live Creative Facebook group where we talk about creative planning, inspired productivity, personal development and intuitive goal setting!  Click here to join!

What are your favorite planner extras for productivity?  How do you use your planner effectively?

xoxo, Moe

How I get More Done // 5 Tips for Productivity

A long while ago I started on this journey to be productive and organized.  This started with purchasing a planner, developing a cleaning routine, expanding on that cleaning routine, finding planner peace, and talking more about my cleaning routine (cleaning routine & cleaning routine).  I credit this obsession with my cleaning routine for making me more productive.  Today I want to share with you 5 tips on setting your mind frame in order to create more productivity in your day.

Decide what activities are important

This is the first part to being productive.  There are things you do in your daily life that take priority over other things.  The first thing to do is decide what is most important to you.  For me, I decided to make cleaning a priority.  I made it something that had to be done in my daily life and I sucked it up and did it for a few weeks straight until it became habit.  You may find that there is an activity you want to complete during the day but haven't made time for it - make this activity a priority for a few weeks, then it will become habit.  Also there is no easy way to do this - suck it up and get it done.  Then it will seem out of place to not do it.

You may also need to prioritize things differently.  I love to sleep the frick in on every damn day of my life.  I dislike what 5am looks like.  But I found during my day to day life if I woke up 30 minutes before I have to leave for work, my day tends to stink.  I get to work still tired, I'm thrown into the thick of if still hazy, and I'm yawning well into 1pm.  I found that if I woke up early enough to enjoy time to myself and allow my body to adjust to the burning sunshine my day was more pleasant.  I wasn't playing catch up with myself all day.  (Pro tip on waking up - don't hit the snooze, it will only make you feel more tired.  I'm not a scientist, but I do play one on TV)  Re-prioritizing something that you may think is important when in actuality it might be detrimental to your productivity levels, may help you.

Create & Test Routines

Re-prioritizing things in your day to day life may lead to new routines.  I find that if I complete certain tasks in a certain order I feel more efficient and more productive.  Even if it is in minor increments, keeping to a schedule is key to feeling productive.  In the morning I wake up at 5:10am, I take Sweetie potty and am back inside to have her fed and my coffee brewed by 5:25am, then I cuddle back up with her in bed and mess around on my phone, watch TV, etc until 5:55am when I start to do my make up (if I feel like it), I get dressed by 5:18am, put up Sweetie, and if all is on track I'm out the door a little before 6:30am.  I didn't sit down and decide on 5:18am being the time I start to put my pants on, I just found that by re-prioritizing the things that made my morning better that this was the routine the fit best for me.

By creating and testing different routines you'll be able to develop what works best in what order.  I can't give you the scientific breakdown of it but you should be able to develop a routine that flows together organically.  For me it is pointless to walk to the kitchen and brew my coffee before going into the bathroom because the bathroom is before the kitchen.  So then I'll get that over with, wash my face, etc.  Then my dog has to pee so of course we'll go downstairs and outside, etc, etc.  The routine you develop should be organic.

You may find that if you switch this and that you're more productive (or less) and you should evolve your routines.  One thing I am absolutely horrible at is adapting my routine when something changes. I am horrible at it and my whole life is thrown off for weeks at a time.  

Write (Specific & Helpful) To Do Lists

I find that the more specific my To Do List is, the more helpful it is.  It also helps to see what actually can be done in an allotted amount of time.  If you have a task, simply writing task reminds you about the task.  If the task has certain parts to complete it, I find writing down all that needs to be done is very helpful.  Not only is a metal thing where you can check off more things but it shows your progress.  I try to break down a task (if it needs to be broken down) into 3 to 4 steps so I'm not overwhelmed.  Laundry is a great example - wash, fold, put away.  Laundry also doesn't happen all at once so you can see your progress even as your working on other things during the day.  Breaking down the task into smaller tasks makes me feel like I'm staying on track and getting things done.

I find being too specific is unhelpful to me.  I also find that creating a general, non-intimidating heading to be super helpful.  So instead of a generic YouTube as a task, I'll put Schedule Videos and break it down into edit, upload, finalize the list of videos I have.  That way I know what I'm doing but I'm not overwhelmed.  I work in batches too - batch edit, batch upload, finalize them all in one go.  Batching is super helpful when it comes to To Do lists. 

Hold Yourself Accountable

A planner does this for me.  Also, remembering the feeling I have when my house is clean and my shit is done helps me stay accountable.  Find something that works for you - because, in general, no one gives a crap about your productivity except for you.  (your job is a different story, though.)  No one cares if you got your mascara on before 6:05am in order to finish curling your hair by 6:45am, except for you.   No one cares if you clean the family room on Tuesdays or on Saturdays, except for you.  You get what I mean?  Find something that pushes you to complete your tasks.  But also don't stress on it if you can't get things done.  Creating routines and To Do lists will show you what you can feasibly fit in your amount of time.

I hope this post was a little bit helpful - it is how I approach productivity in my daily life and how I get a handle on things!  Creating routines and just seeing what I can do and when I can do it gives me a little more control over my life, you know?  And I think that is a very helpful thing to have a tiny bit of control over!

How do you stay productive?  How do you keep on top of daily tasks?

xoxo, Moe

3 Productivity Tips for the Extremely Unmotivated

I like to think that productivity is a strong suit of mine.....but most of the time it isn't.  When I get to a task I can complete it, but the motivation to do it is rarely there for me.  So dishes sit undone, packages sit unmailed, emails go unanswered, and blog posts get pushed to the side.  Do you know what I'm doing while I'm procrastinating?  Nothing enriching, I can tell you that.

Productivity is part motivation but mostly discipline.  Discipline is doing what needs to be done even if you don't want to do it while motivation is just the push that makes you show up.  Procrastination puts off the inevitable, eventually you're gonna need to do that thing so why not just show up now & do it?

Here are my three, no fail tips for getting the motivation to be productive every day :

The 2-Minute Rule

Do you know how many tasks take less that two minutes to complete?  You could unload & load the dishwasher in less than two minutes.  You can take out the trash in less than two minutes.  You can wipe down your kitchen/bathroom surfaces in less than two minutes.  There are a lot of boring-yet-important tasks that can be done in less than two minutes.  So if it can be done in two minutes, just do it now.  Just. Do. It.

Set a 30-Minute Timer

Second question - do you know how many tasks can be completed in only 30 minutes?  You can tidy up a room in 30 minutes.  You can organize a drawer in 30 minutes (or less).  You can get a lot of stuff done in 30 minutes.  I set a timer for 30 minutes each night to clean one room in my house.  Set that time, get your butt moving.  The best part of this 30 minute clean is I'm also fitting in a bit of exercise - vacuuming really gets your heart rate up.

Just Show Up

You're already in the kitchen, might as well clean up.  This is the inspiration for this tip.  If you just put yourself where you need to be then you're already there and you might as well do it.  Pair this with the timer option.  Open your computer, set a timer, and start writing down and idea for a blog post.  Get some copy going, organize your points, and before you know it you have the meat of the post done.  If you've got graphics, elements, links, etc to add and you have more time than the 30 minutes you allotted yourself, then keep going.  Just showing up is half the battle!

These three tips help me to get my tasks in perspective.  We often see the whole picture rather than it's parts and we often think we can't consume the whale all in one bite.  But if we start small & show up, we can complete larger tasks.  Many goals have smaller supportive components that, when we focus on those, lay the ground work for completing the broader goal.  We can also get a grasp on daily routines that seem overwhelming by consistently showing up.  

The biggest example for me on tackling daily routines is in keeping the house tidy.  I am a messy person who should not be left alone with an empty table and free access to my craft supplies.  I've been known to have the coffee table, my craft table, and the dinning room table filled with something I'm working on!  I set things down where they don't go and I've been known to leave a glass or seven on the coffee table.  Because I hated cleaning my house all in one go on a Saturday when I could be binge watching Ancient Aliens, I created a cleaning routine that broke the house into zones.  Each zone is assigned a day and I show up to each zone on that day to clean for 30 minutes.  I don't tackle other rooms, I don't focus on the overwhelm, I simply clean for 30 minutes.  The Three Waves Cleaning method is what helps me to keep my mind focused only on this task.  Now, because I'm consistent in showing up to my task & completing it I don't need the full 30 minutes for one room any longer.  It now takes me about 40 minutes to tidy up the whole down stairs (save if my craft area is extremely messy) rather that just 30 minutes in the living room.  The downstairs in our house is the living room, my craft room, & a spare room I use for yoga/meditation.  So cleaning that up all in one go is amazing! 

The more I show up for my daily tasks the more I show up in other areas of my life.  The motivation just keeps going because you're on a roll...why stop now?  If you get up and start doing then the task will be done, done quicker, and you'll end up with more time on your hands!

This doesn't have to be for cleaning either.  I'll show up to my blog and spend an hour writing out the copy for a few posts.  Then I'm done with the hard part, have the majority of maybe 3 articles to publish in the next week, and can move on to the creative part like taking or editing the pictures.  Once I've showed up to the task I'm more likely to keep going because I've suddenly found the inspiration!

I hope this helps you to tackle the to do's that you're not really excited about.  Once you're in the routine you're able to get more done!

How do you manage your productivity? What motivates you?

xoxo, Moe

Boost your Blog // 5 Stock Photo Tips for Bloggers

As a blogger you may find you don't have time to take that perfectly styled photo for your text blog post.  You have all the text written out but you don't have the perfect image.  If you blog between your day job and your family, you may find more often than not you push a post off if you can't find the time to take the perfect image for it.  A blog post that has an image is more likely to resonate with readers and more likely to be pinned - because there's an image to pin - or shared on social media because there's something besides a wall of text to look at. 

Enter the stock photo!

image via Ivory Mix

A few posts ago I shared with you some stock photos that fit the Boss Babe aesthetic.  Today I want to share with you some tips on using stock photos on your website as they can either add to or take away from the aesthetic of your post.  Here are some tips for working with stock photos on your blog.

Consider the Post

If you're posting about a techy thing like an app or about your computer or about a new website you've found you may want to consider finding an image that matches that.  An styled image of a laptop or of the style phone you use.  A desktop scene, a scene that reflect productivity.  If you're sharing your thoughts on meal planning consider finding an image of veggies or of a farmers market.  Imagine if you, as a reader, came upon a blog and saw a foodie style image for a post about a new productivity app.  If the app has nothing to do with food......you may be confused as a reader.  The visual and probably the reason you're reading the post in the first place isn't in sync with the feel or info in the post.  So consider the traits of an image that would best suit the post you're working with.

Choose a Relevant Image

In the Boss Babe Stock Photo post I shared four resources for that fun, feminine, entrepreneurial aesthetic.  If those images don't suit your blog - maybe you're more simple, less colorful, black and white, minimal - find stock photos that will complement your style.  Keeping the first tip in mind, search for free stock images that are both relevant to your post and keep with the overall look of your blog.  Consider the story you're trying to tell with your post, don't choose an something that causes a disconnect between the image and the content.  I try to find at least 2 to 3 images to work with.  Sometimes one will jive really well with your content and sometimes you may feel iffy on an image.  Keep your options open and bookmark images that speak to you...you may end up using them later.

Be Unique

There are a ton of free stock photo sites out there and your great article can be come just another post if you're not being unique.  Keep tabs on the images you've use already (I'm guilty of not doing this!) so that you don't consistently or accidentally use the same images over and over again...or even a few months or years a part from each other!  Keep building your library of stock photos.  Keep finding new sites.  Even consider sitting down one day and shooting a bunch of photos relevant to your blog's theme so that you can have a library of your own to pull from if needed.  I did this about a year ago and it really helped me work on some upcoming posts knowing I had images ready for me.  Find my free for commercial use images here.

Add Text

In order to make your article better received on social sharing sites like Pinterest, overlay text on your photo that relates to the blog post.  Usually this will be the blog title or a shortened, catchy version of it.  This is what will draw readers in.  Often referred to as a beauty shot, this image will appear at the top of your article (sometimes bloggers will put it at the bottom and encourage a pin...I don't find that flows naturally for me).  It is here that you want to consider your post and blog aesthetic too - I often decide what words I'd like to emphasize, if there is a number in the title I'd like to stand out, and the layout I'd like the text to look.  If you take a peek around the blog you'll see I consistently use one style of text-over-photo for my images. In the What is a Style Guide? post I mentioned a few tips for keeping consistency when it comes to choosing fonts and colors.  The app I consistently use to add text to my photos is Phonto.  It has a ton of fonts, you can upload your own, and it's no fuss.  Perfect for quickly creating that Pinterest friendly image.   If you want some inspiration for creating Pinterest friendly images, click here.

Give Credit

There are sites out there that require credit when an image is used and there are sites that say 'do what ever you want with these images (with in reason).'  Make sure you're understanding the terms of use with each image you add onto your blog.  Playing nice is a big thing for me and it should be for you too.  Image if you worked really hard on an image for your blog and then some one snatched it, cropped it, and used a font like Papyrus over it?  Um, no thank you.  So give credit if credit is needed.  A short blurb and link under the photo should work unless there's a bigger requirement as laid out in the terms of use.  Also, don't just assume that because an image is on the internet you can use it willy nilly.  Find and utilize dedicated free for commercial use/royalty free websites and not just Google image search.  

Stock photos can be a creative and helpful resource for bloggers.  They can also be sterile, disconnected, and stale if not used properly.  Remember you're developing the aesthetic of your blog and you can be choosy.  Don't conform and don't use bad stock photos!  I hope this post helped you realize how you can integrate stock photos into your current editorial calendar.

What sites are your favorite for stock photos?  Do you already incorporate stock photos into your content?

xoxo, Moe

App Review // Write365

Welcome to the second installment of the App Review series here on the blog!  This week is going to be a review of an app called Write365 created by a wonderful & inspiring blogger - Kam from Campfire Chic.  Campfire Chic is a blog I go to when I want productivity inspiration.  Kam works 9-5 in an office yet has time to be the most awesome person I've never met.  And while doodling around on her blog that apparently I've forgotten about, I found that she released an app - this app, Write 365.  So, of course I downloaded it.  And today I want to share with you how simplistically awesome it is.

What it is

A simple, distraction free tool to help writers overcome writer's block.  Open the app, click Get Inspired to find your next blog topic or creative writing challenge.  Write356 was built with bloggers, scrapbookers, and jounalers in mind.  Option to email the topic to yourself for later creative writing.

taken from the app store description here.

What it does

It is a distraction free, simple app that gives you a prompt when you request it.  This app is a no frills way to get inspired.  The by thumbing through hundreds of writing prompts.  If you find a good one, don't let it pass! Email it to yourself to start on later.

How it helps you

If you're a blogger, scrapbooker, or jounaler who just needs a little push, this simple app can nudge you in the right direction.  If your someone just starting out in journalling and find it hard to find fun prompts easily - this is the app for you.  I have always wanted to create fun journaling projects but rarely find the inspiration.  The no-nonsense interface gives you a prompt and lets you roll with it.

If you've lost your groove and need it back, Write365 is so simple to push you back on track.

If you want more productivity ideas, you should totally check out Kam's blog here.  Download the Write365 app here.

Found any other journaling prompts?  Let me know!

xoxo, Moe

5 Creative Ways to use Graph Paper in your Mini Happy Planner

My Mini Happy Planner is currently the only planner I use on a regular basis.  It holds EVERYTHING for me!  There are two major reasons why I use the Happy Planner brand exclusively for my weekly planner - the disc bound system & the cute yet functional accessories.  

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

Prior to the emergence of the Happy Planner (which, side note, can we just reflect on how much the planner options have grown in recent years?) I relied on making inserts myself for various ring bound planners.  It was perfect for me...until it got overwhelming.  I would spend painstaking hours trying to create the perfect planner page for myself.  It got to be that I was spending too much time working on a planner page than actually using my planner.  Being too dang specific with my layouts really bummed me out.

When I found the Mini Happy Planner I was sold on the ease of it all.  It was already done for me, there was nothing for me to fenagle, I could just use it as is.  But once the brand started adding cute yet functional accessories I found myself getting right back into my love of planning.  Planner peace?  I'm not quite sure....but I sure am happy with it!

One of the first accessories or extensions I bought was the lined & graph filler paper pack. This was just supposed to be for quick notes and ideas but has become one of my favorite products from the brand.  They are blank & they are versatile!  Pair these perfectly gridded and beautifully lined pages with the hundreds of stickers & sticker books from the Happy Planner and you're set for creating fun & functional lists, trackers, and dashboards right in your planner.  Here are 5 of my favorite ideas for using graph paper in your planner:

Cleaning Routine

One of the unintentional themes of my life, my planner, and my blog is cleaning.  I've been obsessed with coming up with an effective & simple cleaning routine that I just flipping do!  Who else struggles with keeping their house neat and tidy?  Just me?  Lordy I hope not!  Back in January I shared a post on being your best self and this post inspired me to write out practical routines that will make my life better....and cleaning was one of them. 

The graph filler paper plus some of the more functional stickers from the MAMBI Today is the Day pack & Quotes pack packs make creating your cleaning routines fun.  Sprinkle in some washi & some quotes and you'll be inspired in no time.  I broke my cleaning routine in to zones, though not the traditional zones that I believe are in zone cleaning.  This is just what works the best for me.  Learn more about my journey developing a cleaning routine here.

Vision Board

I have a whole separate vision planner that I use as a place for visual inspiration to align myself with my goals (or vision) for the year!  But in my everyday planner I like to have a reminder of the things I'm working towards in the year.  

Again, I pair some functional stickers with some of the quotes and washi to make an inspiring place to fill in my goals.  The old Productivity Sticker book as well as the Student Sticker book and the new Colorful Boxes sticker book would be great for this little project.  

Bucket List

The seasonal MAMBI sticker books already have seasonally inspired bucket lists for you to stick in your planner, but you can totally get creative with what you put on yours.  By using the different decor stickers you can create a custom bucket list for a season, holiday, vacation, etc.

A cool idea for this would to do a weekend getaway bucket list using some of the seasonal stickers especially if you're going away with family and have a few memories you want to check off.  The Memory Planner sticker books would be great for this!

Daily Routine

Back to visualizing your best self here!  What does you're ideal daily routine look like?  You can use the graph paper to outline hour by hour what you'd like your day to look like.  I know that the new Fill In Productivity sticker book has hourly stickers designed for the classic size, but you could trim them to fit down the Mini Happy Planner for your morning and evening routine. 

I also like to make a weekend routine so that I stay on track with prepping for the next week.  Sticking to the routine is the hard part!

Project Planner

As a blogger sometimes I have a lot of things going on at once so it's nice to be able to breakdown a project into steps.  I usually do this for the essential oil classes I offer but sometimes I'll do it for bigger projects like ebooks as well. 

Both of the Student Sticker books (this one & this one) hav these project stickers where you can name the project, add a few details, and then add a due date.  Now I have a whole sheet dedicated to that project!

The lined & graph filler paper is such a versatile addition to your planner especially if you need a little bit more space to write and plan things or if you find yourself going to too many different notebooks for what you need.  It's fun to get creative in your planner and these creative projects can also be functional!  If you want to see more ways to keep your planner fun yet functional check out this post, too.

The whole Happy Planner line is both fun & functional.  I love collecting everything I can from the line so I have a bunch of options when it is time to create something new.

How do you use graph paper in your planner?  What fun yet functional things to you include in your planners?

xoxo, Moe

5 Ways to Decorate your Planner...Functionally!

How you use your planner is a hot button topic in the planning world.  You can't use stickers, what's they're purpose?  You can't use just pen, that's too boring?  Where's the space to write anything? Where's the space to be creative?  Well...I've got one thing to tell you: how you use or decorate your planner is up to you.  If it works for you, you get to do it!

this post contains affiliate links, please see my full disclosure here.

I've gone through a ton of planning systems over the years.  First, I graduated from a pen only, Mead planner to an A5 filofax, then I got a Happy Planner, then I grabbed up every singe personal size binder I could find, I switched to vertical planning, then I used multiple planners, then I used a traveler's notebook, then I got a memory planner, now I'm in one planner.  Guess what?  By May I might be doing something totally different! (and that is ok!)

Today I want to share with you 5 ways that decor can serve function in your planner!

Simple yet Creative Monthly Layout

In my planner I like to keep the monthly layout simple.  Because the Mini Happy Planner has smaller space in the monthly layout and I personally have a lot to put in there...I keep it simple with pen & highlighters.  Highlighters help add color coding & decor to keep me inspired.  And the Frixion pens mean if something changes I can erase it!  Frixion also makes highlighters...so that is a plus.  To add stickers in, focus on the edges.  Don't let the stickers take up too much real estate but you can still use them!

Make your Routines Colorful

One of the best things about all the Happy Planner Sticker books is that they come with a ton of functional stickers.  The Productivity book (both for the classic & the mini size) is one of my favorites.  I also got these letter stickers from a Student sticker book.  By organizing out our ideal routines onto a planner page we're more likely to be able to conquer the task!  For my cleaning routine I've broken my house up into multiple areas.  I focus on one area a day, then do my morning & evening routines to keep the house in order.  A huge goal this year is to get back to my routine!  As I type this our living room is a wreck!

Fun Icons & To Do Lists

In smaller planners, quick reference icons can help us to see where tasks are assigned quickly.  I like to throw in an icon on check lists or in the daily box so I know when something like the trash needs to go out or when I need to get my yoga on.  Putting to do lists over a few days also keeps me on track with when tasks should be completed.  I usually have beginning of the week tasks and then weekend tasks.  I get to overwhelmed if I assign something to a certain day!

Stamped Habit Trackers

If you're down for a cleaner look - like the simple monthly layout - the planner stamps are a way to keep it sleek but still get creative. There are a ton of planner stamps out there to get creative with.  There's a set from Fun Stampers Journey that includes a set of banners.  When I didn't know what to do with them I used them as a habit tracker!  The best thing about stamps is that you'll never run out of an icon you use.  Stamp it every week for years to come.  I don't know if they are more economical because I find myself still buying them!  (Here's how I try to save money on them!)

Get Inspired

One of my favorite ways to decorate my planner is with the Sticker Cluster.  Most of the time I use this to create inspirational clusters in the lower right had part of my Mini Happy Planner spreads.  These guys inspire me to keep reaching for my goals through the week!  Sometimes pure decoration serves a functional purpose!

Anyway you use your planner - pen only or stickers galore - as long as it's working in the way you need it, the way you are using it is valid.  Some people use planners for tasks lists, some people use them for memory keeping, some people use them for project management, some people use them so their kid actually gets to dance class on Tuesdays.  You do you boo boo!

Wanna find more planner posts?  Check out all the planner related posts on the blog by clicking here.  Want even more planner stuff?  Join the Printable of the Month Club over on my Patreon page!  $3 a month gets you access to an ever growing library of planner printables.  Planner inserts, journaling cards, die cuts, stickers!  Go ahead and join here.  Can't wait to have you.

xoxo, Moe

Three Ways to use Pocket Pages in your Planner

As a creative person, adding visual elements to my planner is super important to me.  I need the inspiration that creative planning offers to me.  Not only is the act of planning a creative outlet for me, the habit of looking at my planner keeps me inspired!  One of my favorite ways to get creative in my planner is with the page protectors.  Tons of planner companies make these page protectors or pocket pages for various planners (check this post here) but right now we'll be getting creative using the Happy Planner line of page protectors

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

As you know, the Mini Happy Planner is 100% my go to planner for everything.  I've got one functional planner and one memory planner...both are from the Happy Planner line.  You may be thinking we'll be getting creative in my memory planner today but you're wrong! We're gonna make some amazing pocket page projects perfect for your functional planner which in my case is the Mini Happy Planner!  But of course you can translate these into any planner system you use.

Photo Dashboard with Sticky Notes

When you open you're planner, it is best to feel inspired!  Adding some photos of your family or other images that inspire you will make you super happy each time you open your planner.  To make this guy functional add in your favorite sticky notes.

I love that there are 2x2 squares in the page protectors because they fit the sticky notes perfectly.  Trim your photos down and then alternate with some patterned journal cards to create a functional dashboard.  Plus, this guy will be back and front - double the sticky note storage!

Mini Vision Board

In my current planner I have a mini vision board right in the front.  This helps me to keep on track with my goals during the year.  You can use this to create a fitness vision board, a vision board for your next vacation, or a vision board for a new home project.   

I created this vision board at the beginning of the year to go along with my vision planner.  I like keeping this smaller guy with me so that I see it everyday since my vision planner is much bigger.  You can check out some vision board tips in this post.

Visual Project Planning

This sort of goes with the vision board option above, but when you pair these page protectors with the project planning filler paper you can create a whole visually inspiring project section.  I'm using the pocket pages to store an overview of the aesthetic I'm going for with the wedding so that when I'm planning any part of the wedding I can make sure the whole visual comes together.

This can be great for blog planning or branding too in your social media planner.  You can make sure your whole brand comes together with the same aesthetic!  I shared these project pages in this post about the best productive add ons for the Happy Planner.

I just love all the creative ways we can use our planners right now.  It is so inspiring!  And the fact that the page protectors aren't just for one size of the Happy Planner is great.  These guys aren't just limited to memory planning...they are a very helpful visual tool.

If your'e looking for some more creative planning, productivity tips, & personal growth check out the Five Sixteenths | Live Creative group on Facebook.  And check out the YouTube channel for more planner awesomeness!  OH and if you want to save moolah on Happy Planner stuff, check out Blitsy to save some serious cash.

How do you use pocket pages in your planner?

xoxo, Moe

A Beginners Guide to a Stress Free Morning

I've been posting a lot lately about the power of routines and how they help to alleviate stress & prepare us for the day.  Both morning and evening routines are important to building a balanced life, but today I want to share with you more about a morning routine.

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

Often times, we find posts on routines and think 'that is easier said than done!' and today I'm here to provide you 3 easy ways to make sure you're morning is stress free.  In this post I share a little bit about the importance of routine.  Part of the success of a morning routine involves creating a space where you feel calm, creative, and supported.  This doesn't have to be a dedicated room, in fact is should be all about your whole house inviting you to feel comfortable.  Here are the three pieces to creating a receptive environment for you to blossom.

Sight

When we wake up in the morning the first thing our eyes see is our room, right?  Make sure you're sleeping in a space you love.  Make the bed & sleep on bedding you find warm, comfortable, and relaxing.  Tidy your room, tidy the shelves, tidy the floor the night before so that when you wake up you aren't greeted with clutter.

The same applies to every other room in the house.  Here is where your night time routine can affect your morning routine.  Empty the sink of dishes, make sure the house is tidy, & take care of your AM pet peeves the night before so that when you wake up you're pumped for the day and not worried about unfinished tasks.

You can also lay out your clothes, work or school bag, & lunch so that you're visually prepped in the morning for they tasks in the day ahead.

Smell

We all love the scent of that first cup of coffee in the morning.  Is the scent better than that first sip? I think that may be up for debate.  Greet the morning by diffusing a scent that inspires you to get up and go. DoTERRA's Motivate is a great morning diffuser blend because it's got a little bit of citrus & a little bit of peppermint.

If you're getting ready to meditate in the morning, perhaps diffusing something a little more grounding like doTERRA's Balance will help to root you in and focus your intentions.  Sandalwood, Vetiver, and Lavender are also great oils to mellow you out and relieve stress.

We can use essential oils to tap into different mindsets through the day - peppermint can pep you up and get you going, Balance can ground you and keep you even tempered, Lemon can give a fresh zing to your morning with it's citrus scent.

My favorite resource for using essential oils to align my emotions is this Emotions & Essential Oils book.  There's an index to help identify the best oils plus an overview of each single oil & blend from doTERRA.

Sound

Now that it is warmer out (but not too hot) opening the windows and letting the fresh sounds of nature into your home can be a great way to relieve stress in the morning.  Throw open the windows, let in the light, and revel in the sounds of nature!

If that's not quite your thing, honor yourself by finding sounds that pumps you up.  Put on your favorite playlist, listen to an inspiring podcast, or pop on some calming meditation music.  Sound is a great way to connect in with the emotions we'd like to feel as well.

YouTube is a great resource for guided meditations or even energizing inspiration.  And you're not limited to just these traditional things.  Most mornings I watch planner videos because I like the creative inspiration!

Building a morning routine involves honoring ourselves, so you're morning routine is going to look much different than mine.  The important thing to remember is that you're creating a routine for self care.  If you're sick of rushing around and you're sick of falling apart, a morning (and evening) routine is probably going to help you out!

Don't get caught up in how insta-worthy your morning routine is either.  Do what works for you.  Do what makes you feel the most whole.  I used to want to journal in the morning....but couldn't write anything, then I'd stress that I'm wasting the 20 minutes I'd set aside for journaling, then that would make me stress about not doing what I should be doing.  Once I gave up forcing myself to do what I thought I should be doing and focusing on what really fills my cup, I was able to enjoy my mornings better and I felt more successful during the day!

If you'd like some more creative living inspiration, join the awesome Facebook group where we talk productivity, planning, personal development, and intuitive goal setting!

What makes your morning routine successful?

xoxo, Moe