How to Stick to Your Planner (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)

Let’s be real—sometimes planning feels like the greatest thing ever. You get to sit down with your favorite stickers, colorful pens, and that fresh, blank page just waiting to be filled with all your best intentions. Other times? You stare at your planner, groan dramatically, and shove it under a pile of mail like it personally offended you.

Sticking to your planner when life gets chaotic (or when your brain just says, "Nope!") can be tough. But the good news? You don’t have to be a perfect planner to be a consistent one! Here are some magic-infused, doodle-approved tips to keep you and your planner on speaking terms—even on the tough days.

1. Make It Fun (Seriously, Planning Shouldn’t Feel Like a Chore)

If your planner feels like an obligation, of course you won’t want to use it! Find ways to make planning something you actually look forward to.

• Use stickers (yes, this is absolutely a shameless plug for Wunderdoodle, but also, stickers make everything better).

• Get colorful! Doodles, washi tape, and gel pens can turn planning into an art project instead of a to-do list.

• Play music, sip your favorite drink, or light a candle while you plan—it’s a vibe.

2. Start Small (Tiny Steps Still Count!)

When you’re overwhelmed, a giant to-do list can feel like a personal attack. Instead of going full “planner perfectionist,” just do the basics:

• Write down one thing you absolutely need to remember for the day.

• Jot down one task you want to accomplish (even if it’s “shower” or “drink water”).

• Give yourself permission to leave white space. Your planner isn’t judging you, I promise.

3. Make It Work for You (Not the Other Way Around)

Your planner should fit your life—not some idealized version of a person who never forgets their laundry. If your current system isn’t working, tweak it!

• Not a daily planner person? Try weekly overviews.

• Hate traditional layouts? Bullet journaling might be your jam.

• Need structure? A pre-made planner with prompts can help.

There’s no right or wrong way to plan—only what works for you.

4. Build a Habit with a Simple Cue

If you keep forgetting to check your planner, link it to something you already do:

• Keep it next to your coffee maker and glance at it while you sip.

• Leave it on your pillow so you check it before bed.

• Put a sticky note on your phone reminding you to open it (meta, right?).

The easier it is to access, the more likely you are to use it.

5. Give Yourself Grace (Perfection is Overrated)

Skipped a day? A week? A whole month? Guess what—you can just start again! There’s no planner police coming to revoke your stationery privileges. Instead of feeling guilty, simply turn the page and move forward.

You’re human. Life happens. And your planner is there to help, not stress you out.

6. Use It as a Memory Keeper (Not Just a To-Do List)

If strict scheduling makes you cringe, try using your planner for fun things:

• Write down a daily win, no matter how small.

• Doodle a tiny sketch of something that made you smile.

• Jot down random thoughts, dreams, or funny things your pets do.

This way, even on low-energy days, your planner still feels like a comforting place rather than a list of things you didn’t do.

7. Reward Yourself (Because You Deserve It!)

Sometimes, motivation needs a little boost. Set up a reward system for yourself:

• Used your planner every day for a week? Treat yourself to a fancy coffee.

• Checked off your big to-do? Break out the cute stickers!

• Stuck with planning all month? Buy a fun new pen or washi tape.

Bribery? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely.

8. Find a Planning Buddy (Accountability Can Be Magic)

Planning is more fun when you share it! Whether it’s a friend, an online community, or a planner Instagram account, having people to talk to about planning can keep you engaged.

• Join a planner group for inspiration and encouragement.

• Do a “planning date” with a friend (virtual or in-person).

• Share your spreads on social media—because sometimes, knowing people will see your cute setup is the motivation you need to use it.

9. Accept That Some Days, “Good Enough” is Enough

Not every planning session needs to be a masterpiece. Some days, you’ll scribble down a grocery list and call it planning. That’s okay! Consistency doesn’t mean perfection—it just means showing up in whatever way you can.

Now, go forth and plan—stickers optional but highly recommended. ✨📖💖