Choosing the right planner is important for an organized life, but with so many lovely planners on the market selecting the right one can be a real dilemma. But honestly, there's only a few things you need to consider when narrowing your list. Today I'm sharing 5 elements to consider when choosing the best pen to paper planner. 

How to select a planner that's right for you:

  • Use:
    • First and most important, think of why you want a planner.  How are you going to use it (school, work, family, business, blog, everything!)? Do you have a lot of appointments, a long to-do list, are you self-employed, work a 9-5, building a business? Do you need more than one planner? These are just some of the questions that will help narrow your list. You want to get a planner(s) that will enhance your planning system, not bog it down. 
  • Design & Layout:
    • In all honesty, this is what I think of first. If it ain't beautiful I don't want it. A beautiful planner will beckon you to use it and that's what you want. So think of your personal style and what design appeals to you? Select a design, exterior and interior, that's going to make you excited about using your planner.  Think of what layout sections are an absolute must and which ones can you live without? A planner may not be able to do all things, but it should do the important things like help you stay on top of what matters most. 
  • Budget:
    • Think of your budget. How much are you willing to spend? On Monday's post I shared a few of my favorite planners, but many of those are over $50. Getting a great planner is an investment into your personal life and/or business affairs. However, don't break the bank for something you're not sure is for you. There are a lot of amazing planners for much less, so find one that works for you and your budget. But, if you're confident that a $50+ planner is an essential tool to your organization, then I strongly recommend you make the investment. Really, it's less about the planner and more about how you use it, but more on this on Friday's post. 
  • Space:
    • Not only should the layout contain pertinent sections, but it should also have enough space for your needs. So think of how much space you will need in order to write comfortably? Some layouts have awesome sections, but that could mean not enough spacing between the lines or the size of the planner is too small or too big. Do you want space for your own creative expression, collaging, or note taking? Be mindful of this. 
  • Portability.
    • Do you intend on traveling to work/school with your planner or will it primarily be at home? Consider the sturdiness, heaviness, thickness. I carried my 2015 daily Day Designer to and from work and that wasn't a problem because I could just have it at my work desk and not worry about it, versus walking around campus with it. 

I hope this list has helped you think of your planner needs. Please feel free to share this with others. On Friday's post I'll be showing you how you can get the most out of your planner so be sure to stop by then. 

If there are any other important factors you think should be on this list, please feel free to add them below.  And click here for the printable checklist version of the list above. 



Au Revoir,

Marie