Hello my Strange & Charmed Ones and welcome to the start of February! If you haven’t noticed, February is really setting itself up to be the perfect month. With its 28 days, it may be the shortest month of the year, but when you take a look at your calendar, it starts on a Sunday, and ends four complete weeks later on a Saturday, making it literally a perfect calendar month! I don’t know about you, but I’m taking that as a sign! I plan to make the most of this little month and fill it with love and laughter and I hope you join me.
If you haven’t seen it yet, I just released my February FREE Filofax printable task list entitled “28 Ways to Love Yourself!” I hope you will go and check it out and use it in your planner to add some extra meaning to the month. I know we all get wrapped up in Valentine’s Day and spreading love to our friends and partners, but we can’t forget about ourselves and this February I am going to be making myself a priority. I know that may sound a little funny, but I sincerely hope you do as well! One of my Instagram followers who downloaded the insert made a very good suggestion that we should start a hashtag and tag photos of our progress with the tasks to IG! So, if you would like to play along, tag your photos with the hashtag #28waystoloveyourself and of course make sure to also tag me @MissTrenchcoat so I can see your IG photos, comment and like them! Other than my free printable, I currently have another great piece of planner related content out for you, my latest YouTube video which is all about making reusable to do lists for your Filofax or planner! This video outlines a technique I use to create and utilize these awesome planner additions, and I even give you a peak into how I use mine!
So, you may be wondering what I have in store for you this month on the blog? Well, glad you asked! This month I am going to be doing a few very informative posts pertaining to blogging and youtube! You will be getting a very rare book post from me as well coming up soon that I hope you enjoy. I’m very excited about this months Picture Perfect post, which is going to be some helpful tips for you fashion bloggers & amateur photographers, so make sure to keep an eye out for that! We’re going to talk about love a little more this month (can’t help it, it is February after all!) and I even have a fun and delicious recipe to share for any of you who LOVE eating cooking dough!
Well, I think that is enough of a monthly preview for you! I don’t want to spoil all the fun, and there are even a few surprises I didn’t mention, so I hope that keeps you on the edge of your seat! One major thing I did want to say, however before I leave you, is how overwhelmed I am with the amount of love and support you all have been showing to my Instagram account! I work so hard to create interesting and beautiful images for you all and apparently you noticed because suddenly I am over 6,000 followers on Instagram! So THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart! I feel so lucky to have a wonderful group of friends as supportive and encouraging as each and every one of you! Well, that will be it for now, so make sure you stay tuned for all of the great content I have in store for you this month!
With precious few days left in 2014, I thought that it would be most appropriate for me to change-up my monthly favorites post and instead of talking about the things I loved in December, look back over the year and pick out my favorite things of 2014! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, 2014 was a year of great positive change for me and I feel like I have so much to be proud of as I look back throughout the year. It’s not so much physical objects or items that I will remember from this year, but mostly experiences and life changes that will define this time. Of course, there are some physical representations associated with some of these memories, and I can use those to help outline this very special edition of Editor’s Faves for 2014!
At the very end of 2013, I purchased my new laptop, Apple’s 11” Macbook Air! It has been an amazing tool for me this year in helping me to achieve my goals and major life changes. It has been a life saver having such a small and portable computer that makes it easy for me to get my tasks complete, my writing in order, and my images edited! You can definitely thank my Macbook Air for awesome projects like my free printables, my tech wallpapers and of course, my Shop!
This year I made a very large and very symbolic bag purchase to celebrate new success and opportunities to come for me in 2014! You may have seen this bag around, I did do a whole What’s in My Bag style post for it, dubbing it my Blogger’s Bag and I think it has been something of a lucky charm for me. Back in April when I first chose the bag, it was a large purchase, but one I needed to make in order to celebrate how far my blog and I had come and to really mark this time in my life as one where I was serious about my online entrepreneurship goals. A month later I went full-time with my blog, and now as I write this at the cusp of a new year and look back through my stats and my accomplishments for 2014, I know that bag was just a symbol of what was to come!
5. 2015 This Is Your Year Printable
You have probably already seen and downloaded your own free copy of my 2015 This Is Your Year Printable that I made for my personal sized Filofax. It was my new year rendition of a very inspirational 2014 version I had found on Pinterest and had tracked to a wonderful little Philadelphia based design blog called The Atelier. That 2014 image sat front in center in my planner for the majority of the year, acting as something of an inspiration board for my planner, filled with inspirational quotes and a powerful message and challenge that truly felt like it had been created for me! So, for 2015, I dreamed up my own version and bought it to life, and I hope that for 2015 it brings me the same motivation and drive as it’s predecessor! I truly believe that 2015 will be a year of great things, not just for myself but for you as well. So long as we keep a sensible head on our shoulders and our eyes fixed upon our goals, there is nothing we won’t achieve in 2015!
The great thing about planners is that there are nearly an endless amount of ways to customize them and add personality to keep you motivated with your daily goals and to-dos! I am asked all the time about my planner personalizations and so I thought it would be fun and helpful if I gave you a run down of 10 Ways to Personalize Your Planner! Although I use a Filofax Original Planner in Fluoro Pink, you can use most of these customizations in any planner you own and use, from a Kate Spade, to an Erin Condren and even a Sugar Paper planner!
#1 Pens
A really cute and coordinating pen is must have item in my planner that I think adds a lot of personality to it. There are quite a variety of pens out there in planner world, and among them multipens like the Pilot Hi-Tech C Coletto are very popular because they give you the ability to write in a variety of colors! Friction pens as well are very popular because they are erasable and as a planner person, you know how scary it can be to write in an appointment and then have things change!
#2 Charms
Planner charms are a very fun way to add personality to your planner because you can literally use a wide variety of charms to coordinate with your interests. Although many sellers on Easy make custom charms in fun shapes like coffee cups, cute animals and even desserts, you can find charms at your local craft store or use ones off a keychain!
#3 Custom Dashboard
As one of the first pages in your planner, a custom dashboard can do a lot to help motivate and inspire you whenever you open it up! It’s simple enough to make your own dashboard by laminating pretty scrapbook paper or cutting down an acrylic screen print to size. I recommend using acrylic prints or laminating regular paper so your dashboard is coated and more durable- it also works well for holding and removing sticky notes!
#4 Custom Dividers
Custom dividers are an excellent way to create a theme for your planner. You can purchase sets of themed dividers on Etsy, but I like to make mine by printing out images and pictures, adding tabs and then laminating everything so it’s nice and sealed! Use your own pictures, quotes, and snippets from magazines to create a collage for your dividers or stick to pretty scrapbook papers if you like a simpler look!
#5 Page Markers
I love to use page markers to help me quickly locate important notes and pages in my planner. There are lots of different varieties of page markers; magnetic ones, paper clips, and even adhesive tabs. They are a great way to add color and style to your planner that you can appreciate even when your planner is closed!
#6 Printable Inserts
Although your planner may come with a set of dedicated inserts, there is always room for more, specifically, for fun and inspirational inserts that help to add personality to your planner and keep you on track with more than just your to-dos and schedule! The insert above is actually a free printable checklist titled 30 Days of Thankfulness that is available through my shop! Inserts like this are a great way to add inspiration to your planner and to add a little fun to your days!
#7 Stickers & Washi
Although planner decoration isn’t for everyone, if you do want to add a little fun and interest to your planner pages, using stickers and washi tape is a fun way to do it! I have quite the collection of washi tape and I always have more than enough stickers around because I usually make my own and print them onto full sheet labels! The sets shown above are currently for sale on my shop, so if you want to print your own stickers at home and like these designs, feel free to check them out!
#8 DIY Folder
Not all planners are created with equal amounts of pockets and storage, so if you need an extra space to store stickers and notecards or whatever else you need to keep inside your planner, check out my easy DIY Folder Tutorial that shows you how to turn a regular file folder into the perfect little storage solution for your planner!
#9 Journaling Cards
Journaling cards are a great way to add instant decor and inspiration to your planner. They can even act as page markers, dashboards and even dividers! This #INSTALOVE card comes from my personal collection of printable journaling cards and is designed to be a frame for square, Instagram style pictures. This is a great way to keep photos of your friends and family with you in your planner! You can also use project life cards and MAMBI pocket pages like this striped card above!
#10 Colorful Paper
Why use plain old white paper in your planner when you can quickly add interest to your pages by using rainbow-colored copy paper? I keep a stack of colorful papers around and cut them down to size and punch them in my planner. They are great for color coding notes or visually dividing up sections or just adding a little fun to your pages!
Of course, this wouldn’t be a complete planner post from me without a fun video to go along with it! If you would like more details on some of the items I have shown in this post, feel free to check out this video!
As always, I hope this post (and video) were helpful for you and gave you some ideas for your own planner! If you have other planner personalizations that I missed, please let me know about them in the comments. I’d also love to see pictures of your planners and how you customize, so please feel free to tag me @MissTrenchcoat in your Instagram pics!
October was a really great month! I have to say, although I believe the days passed much too quickly, I feel like I have never had a more wonderful or productive month. I know I have said this before and I think I am beginning to sound like a broken record, but I really think that my 31 Things to Do in October printable was a major reason I was able to fit so much into my month and almost stay on track making sure that I was constantly in the fall spirit enjoying my days, the change in weather, and making special memories with friends and family! I am so pleased to know that so many of you also downloaded this printable and have also been enjoying it in your planner, utilizing it as a tool to also help you make similar memories and enjoy the little things that make the month of October special.
As you may have already seen, I posted my November printable, 30 Days of Thankfulness, yesterday, and I am hoping that this new printable also helps to keep me in a positive and grateful mindset during the month of November. I am already overwhelmed with gratefulness by the response from members of the planner community who have already gone ahead and downloaded this new printable. I know gratitude is a topic that comes up often in the planner community, and I think this printable will be a wonderful way to help us all take a moment to see what’s truly important in life and show our gratitude for our lives through thoughtful, well intentioned actions!
So, you are probably wondering what else I have been loving this month, product-wise? Well, to be completely honest, there really have only been a handful of items that I have been obsessed with this month since my main priority has been focusing on experiences and not “stuff” this month.
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My first monthly favorite has been my Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure nail polishes, yet again. I have been loving wearing a combination of three of my fall favorites, Pat on the Black, Almost Almond, and Jungle Gem. Next up is the lipstick I have been loving. Since it’s fall I have been all about a purple lip, and I picked up the Milani Violet Volt lipstick this month and have been loving the color! I also picked up a new drugstore foundation this month, after my long time favorite, the Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Foundation, ran out. I ended up choosing the L’Oreal Visible Lift Serum Absolute Advanced Age Reversing Makeup, which is a total mouthful, but has been working wonderfully for my dry skin! My last beauty related favorite has been a perfume, my Dior Addict Eau Fraiche, which I nearly complete forgot I owned because it had been tucked away in the back of my beauty closet for months!
As for non beauty favorites, this month I purchased my first fur vest after deciding that I really wanted one this year to add to my wardrobe! I did some research on different options, decided on the quality I wanted and the price range I was willing to spend within and then found this beautiful black fur vest at Neiman’s! It’s currently on sale as well, so if you are in the market for a high quality fur vest, I do recommend this one! Also, this month I was lucky enough to receive a Fluoro Pink Original Filofax in personal size to review from Filofax! I’m not sure if its too early to say, but I have to admit, I think I may have found planner peace with this beauty! Keep an eye out on my YouTube channel for a set up video coming soon! Finally, my last favorite for this month has been my macaron planner charms that I purchased from an Etsy Shop called Mahal Made! If you love macarons or sweets in general and would like to purchase some cute little charms for your planner, I highly recommend this shop!
Of course, it wouldn’t me a monthly favorites without a video, so in case you would prefer to see me do a little show and tell, here is my October Favorites video linked above for your viewing pleasure!
Now, it’s your turn. Let me know what made your October favorites list! Do you have any suggestions for me of products I should try? Oh, also, if you were one of the members of the planner community who downloaded my 31 Things to Do in October Printable, let me know how you enjoyed it this month? How many of the items were you able to check off? I’d love to know, so leave me a comment or send me a tweet or Instagram picture!
I recently received a very lovely comment from a reader and member of my online community about my life and the work I do creating inspiring and motivational content for others. The comment was truly sweet, and ever since I received it, I have been thinking a lot about my life and the way it must seem to others who follow me online. From the outside looking in, I seem to be living a very charmed life! By all means, I feel incredibly grateful and thankful for my life, because I know that I do live extremely well and am overall, incredibly happy with my situation in life. That doesn’t mean I don’t have bad days like everyone else, or struggle with things like anxiety or depression from time to time, but I know I lead a charmed life. Hence this blog is called Strange & Charmed because it encompasses the duality of my quirky yet blessed life, but I think you already knew that.
What you don’t know about me, the part I am not so open about sharing, is my past, most notably my life before I began blogging in 2008, and even further back than that. Truth be told, as much as I live a wonderful, happy life today, things were not always going so well for me. Growing up was pretty rough for me. For most of my childhood my family was lower middle class, my parents divorced when I was young and from that time onward, I was always moving from one place to another, never setting down roots or establishing friendships in any one place for too long. At various points in my life, I was exposed to some decidedly unfortunate aspects of life, like addiction, abuse, neglect and of course, poverty. It’s a little hard for me to even admit that here to you all on my blog because to be completely honest, it’s painful to even remember those times. However, I think it’s important for me to share this with you guys because we have all gone through bad times in our lives and although some of us have experienced different struggles, we all have them and they are all painful!
What I want you to really take away from this is that if happy well-adjusted Alexis can come from a a place in life where she didn’t have very much and then turn around and make something of her life- something lovely and wonderful- then you certainly can too! I gave it some thought, and put together a list of some of the things that helped me to get where I am today. If you are struggling right now or in a rebuilding phase, hopefully these tips will help you get inspired to make changes in your own life in order to fulfill your dreams and potential.
1. Make a plan: So life isn’t great for you right now, but it doesn’t have to be that way! The first step to getting the charmed life you want is to make a plan. What can you do right now to make your life better? What is lacking in your life that you need to acquire to come to a better place? Figure out what you need and make a plan on how to achieve it!
2. Get to work: If you want something, you have to work for it, it’s that simple! I know this can be a scary concept sometimes because it means that we actually have to take control and get things done ourselves. Your wonderful life is out there waiting for you, but you need to work for it- the world isn’t just going to roll over and hand it to you.
3. Ask for help: I think one of the major things people get wrong when they are trying to build their lives is that they feel like they have to go it alone, as if having help diminishes what you have or can accomplish. This just isn’t true. Don’t be afriad to ask for help if you need it. Sometimes, we don’t know exactly what we need from others, but reaching out for a lifeline can often bring unexpected and positive results.
4. Get out of your comfort zone: We all know that change isn’t easy, and it certainly isn’t comfortable. However, if you want to bring change to your life, you are going to have to get outside your comfort zone and be prepared to feel very uneasy and unsure. Stick to your plan and understand that just because you can feel the pain of change, doesn’t mean that you are hurting yourself. In the long run, a little discomfort during the process is much better than staying in a bad situation.
5. Replace bad habits with new ones: Often times, we are our own worst enemy in our lives. If you complacently play the role of innocent victim, your life will never change. Instead, try to pin-point the areas in your life where you feel helpless, and make changes in your habits to develop confidence. For example, if you feel like you are always working but never have money and like to blame “bad luck” when you get a speeding ticket or a bill goes missing, acknowledge that the common denominator in those situations is you and that you need to become more responsible with your money by getting into the habit of paying bills early or making sure you practice safe driving. Whatever bad habits are holding you back, acknowledge your part in them and do what you can to build new habits in their place.
6. Always be ready and willing to learn: I believe that the people who have the greatest lives are the people who always keep their eyes open for new opportunities to learn. You seriously never know what important life lessons are around the corner, but if you walk around with blinders on all day you will miss them and in turn may miss important signs from the universe that may help you make the most of your life. Be open and always prepared to absorb new information and messages that can bring greater insight to your life.
7. Mix it up: They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. If you have made your life changing plan and have gone ahead and broken out of your comfort zone but you still don’t see changes yielding any results, mix it up. Don’t be afraid to try something new, or to approach your problems from a new angle. Remember, the path of life isn’t a straight line, you may have to take a few turns from time to time!
8. Have a back up plan: So, you have made your plan, and you are determined to stick to it, but things just aren’t working. This is why you need a backup plan- something else to fall back on if your original plan doesn’t pan out. After all, it’s important not to rely too much on one single course of action. Like they say “don’t put all your eggs in one basket!” Options are good, just so long as you aren’t bouncing between options too frequently!
9. Stay inspired: It could take years for you to see major changes in your life, at least, I know it did for me! Don’t let this deter you or cause you to loose hope in your dreams. After all, this is life, and your in it for the long-haul! Make sure to constantly look for motivation and inspiration for your journey so you don’t loose steam. Even when things get tough, and they will get tough as you try to make major life changes, remember this quote by Kenji Miyazawa “We must embrace paid and burn it as fuel for our journey.”
10. Share what you have learned: As you take this journey of self-advancement, you will certainly learn a thing or two along the way. I believe that what we have learned, we must also share with others. Although this post may be titled “Secrets of a Charmed Life” there is nothing “secret” about it. The formula for a charmed life isn’t something that’s hidden from people, in fact, if you really pay attention, you are receiving signs and messages to uplift and advance you all the time. It’s just a matter of believing in yourself and trusting that you will end up where you need to be in life. As you go along on this journey, take a moment to stop and share your knowledge with others. It’s almost like leaving a trail of breadcrumbs behind so that you do not get lost along the way and so that others can also find you and see the direction you have headed.
Now, to help you guys remember these little lessons, I have created a lovely free printable with a book mark, some journaling cards, some page tabs, and deco flags! Like I said above, you will need a lot of inspiration for your journey, and I hope these small reminders help you stay inspired. For best results, I suggest printing these on 98 bright, 32lb paper or a nice heavy card stock if you have it handy! If you enjoy this printable, I may start making more of these sorts of things and including them in my blog posts as little mementos that you can keep with you in your planner, a notebook, or on your inspiration board! Make sure to let me know what you think and what sorts of printables you would like in the future, and of course, make sure to share this in your social media! I would also love to see pictures of these journaling cards and deco items at home in your planners and notebooks, so please make sure to upload a picture to Instagram and tag me!
Some of you may recall earlier this year when I received my first filofax style planner, an A5 mint beauty from Kikki K that I wrote a rather extensive blog post about! I love my A5 Mint Time Planner, but after acquainting myself to the filofax and planner community, I began to realize that an A5 planner was just too large for my needs. Yes, it holds a lot of information and yes, the pages are much larger so you can really capture all the details of day-to-day life, but for me, it wasn’t perfect. When I moved onto my personal sized Kate Spade Wellesley Planner, I began feeling a little more at home in a 6 ring planner. It was more compact, easy to carry and write in while I was on the go and it fit nicely into more of my handbags. But still, it just didn’t feel 100% right to me. For a lot of us in the planner community, the search for that perfect planner is something that seems to elude us. Many of us have collections of planners that may seem frivolous to some, but those who understand know that our planners are like our babies. Okay, not literally, but like children or pets, our planners each seem beautiful and unique in their own way, and again, like children or pets, sometimes they just aren’t perfect and we try to work through issues to come to some state of balance. I have to say though, this last week I received a beautiful gift from one of my favorite stationery companies, Kikki K, and it has really been making me question my loyalty to my other planners. I was sent a Medium 2015 Lilac Time Planner (with a matching adorable pen!) and although it wasn’t something I was ever expecting to like, I have fallen head over heels in love with it!
There is something about the Kikki K planners that I just like. They are made from soft leather, have a nice rounded feel in the hands and the color, oh the color, it’s breathtaking! I’ve never thought of myself as a purple person, but this lilac is sophisticated and feminine, and surprisingly neutral! I also just love the dimensions of this planner. When I compare it to my Kate Spade planner, it’s slight wider and slightly shorter, but more of a square shape overall than the obvious rectangular shape of the Wellesley. To me, the proportions feel anatomically correct. Of course, there is also the elastic closure band, which I am a major fan of and was one of the reasons I purchased the mint A5 earlier this year. I think the elastic band is secure, but forgiving! You can stuff it with more inserts, stickers, notepads, and washi samples than a traditional planner with a button or zipper closure and it all holds together!
Another thing Kikki K gets right with this planner is the pockets! The inner cover has an array of pockets, from a large secretarial pocket, perfect for loose papers, cards, mail and more! Then, it has a selection of pockets, some deep, some small, but all have a variety of uses and can fit a plethora of planner goodies and decor! One thing I am very pleased about, in comparison to my mint planner, are the dividers! They are a lovely shade of peachy pink that work nicely with the lilac planner. They are so lovely, in fact, that I didn’t bother making my own personalized dividers, because I loved the stock dividers so much!
Now, on to the inserts and the various sections of this planner! The planner came with a variety of inserts: month on two pages spread, week on two pages calendar, address book inserts, birthday and anniversary pages, shops and restaurant tracker, to-do lists, and expense sheets. I love the Kikki K calendar inserts, however, the dates began with 2015 so they weren’t much use to me. So, I used some free printables from Philofaxy to hold me over until the new year! I also put aside the address book, birthday/anniversary, shops/restaurants, and expense sheets because they aren’t any use to me. Instead, I broke my planner down into the following sections: Monthly View, Weekly View, Yearly, Strange & Charmed, Life, and To-Dos!
My monthly view is my editorial calendar for my blog and YouTube channel, helping me keep track of posts and regularly scheduled content!
In my weekly view, I opted for a week per page layout paired with a custom Task List that I designed myself! These two together help me manage my tasks and important items throughout my week.
My yearly section is geared towards helping me organize big picture life goals and tasks. I use a variety of pages in this section to help keep my focused, breaking down my year by month and seasonally.
The Strange & Charmed section is devoted to my blog and YouTube channel. Here I keep track of blog posts and YouTube video ideas with custom trackers I designed for myself. I also keep a variety of loose notepaper here for taking notes or brainstorming.
The life section encompasses everything else in my life that I need to keep track of. This is my place for storing inspiration, my wish list, and taking extraneous notes.
Finally, the meager to-do section is where I keep a running list of to-do items that need my attention.
Overall, I am loving this little planner! I think the size is perfect for me as the planner fits everything I need, all in one place! I am obsessed with the color, which is such a random thing for me, but I just think its such a great shade! I am so excited and thankful that Kikki K was kind enough to send this planner to me, and if you have been thinking about this planner, I definitely think you should pick it up sooner rather than later, as these tend to go out of stock as we get closer to year’s end. Of course, if you want to see an even more in-depth look at my planner set up, make sure to check out my YouTube video below, which basically walks you through the entire planner! If you are interested in any of my custom planner inserts, feel free to visit my shop!
Ever since I became involved with the Filofax community, I have been asked tons of questions about how to start with a Filofax or similar ring bound planner system! It’s such a complicated question, mostly because the experience of using a Filofax is so highly personalized, which is exactly why I like to use a Filofax over any other sort of planner system. You can set up a Filofax in an uncountable number of ways, whatever suits your needs. I will say, however, that there is a basic process that everyone can use to start themselves off with a new planner, and if you’re thinking about getting a Filofax and want a general idea of how to start personalizing your own experience, this should help!
1. Pick out a planner that suits you:Filofax has a number of planners in a variety of styles and sizes to suit a variety of needs. If you’re not sure where to start off, I would suggest a personal sized planner because it’s the most portable, but if you know you need tons of space to write and don’t have a problem with carrying around a larger planner, go with A5. Once you know what size planner you want, it’s up to you which style and color you choose, whether it be leather or cloth, a bright color or a neutral. That part is entirely up to you and your style!
2. Pick a calendar/diary refill: A new Filofax will come with a calendar/diary insert (different styles come with different layouts, so be sure to check which comes with yours) but if you want a specific layout you may need to buy it separately. There are all sorts of monthly calendars, weekly and even daily layouts available and if you would like the chance to try out one without committing to buying a refill pack, you can always check out the free printable diary refills from Philofaxy! Generally speaking, may people use a combination of a month on two pages calendar with a week on two pages in order to get a monthly view and a weekly view of their schedule, but if you have lots of to-do items that you need to schedule, you may require a day per page or a day in two pages layout! Make sure to check all available options to understand what’s available and how you could make use of each type.
3. Purchase refill scrap paper or to do lists: Like I said, Filofax planners come with a variety of paper already depending on the type of planner you buy, however, I love to find additional pads of paper to use as scrap paper in my planner since refills from Filofax are usually pretty expensive. Once you know the paper dimensions of the planner you are going to use, you can easily find notepads that are compatible with your planner. These may require you to do a little hole punching on your own, but I find the effort is always worth it because you save yourself money and open yourself up to a variety of different paper for your planner. I love scouring the Target dollar bins for paper pads, as they often have ones closely compatible with a personal sized Filofax that I can punch and use in my own planner!
4. Get yourself a nice pen: Technically, you don’t need any sort of fancy pen to use in a Filofax, however, many planner enthusiast prefer to use erasable ink pens in their planners in case they need to remove scheduled events or to do items. The Frixion Pen is a very popular option and comes in a variety of ink colors and pen sizes! I love the .38mm Frixion Slim Pen shown above!
5. Find yourself some decorative sticky notes and cute stationery accents: I love cute sticky notes, page markers and paper clips in my planner, although you can technically use any old stickies and clips! I find that with the variety of affordable decorative stationery available online and in craft and hobby shops, you can really personalize your planner to the next level with very little effort. Cute stationery extras are a simple way to keep yourself motivated to stay organized with a planner, while also playing a functional role in your planner system!
I hope these tips help you to get started with your first Filofax planner system! The sky is the limit with how you can set up your own planner and all the different additions and personalizations you can put into your planner to make it unique and functional for you. If you need more inspiration for starting your first planner, feel free to check out my Filofax and Planner series on my YouTube Channel where I show you my own planner set ups and hauls filled with different stationery and accents I use in my planners!
Whether you set resolutions for yourself on January 1st or not, goal setting is an important personal and professional exercise that will help motivate you to achieve your dreams or to discover them! This is an exercise that you can work on as frequently or infrequently as you want throughout the year, but I suggest doing this twice a year, roughly every six months to help you evaluate your progress in your goals or to adjust them as changes occur in your life.
Now, before we begin, I suggest downloading my free set of productivity printables here and printing out the sheet titled “My Goal Tracker” on page 4 of the packet. This sheet contains most of the steps in this goal setting exercise and is a great resource to keep with you to track your goals! If you do not want to use the print out, no problem! You just need a pen/pencil and some paper to proceed and YES, it does need to be paper because this is a very personal activity and the act of writing on paper will help solidify your goals in a visceral way!
Step 1: Select 3 Life Goals
The first step in goal setting is to choose the goals that are most important to you! Some people may have multiple goals that they wish to set in motion now, but I suggest only focusing on 3 at the most at one time. Trying to track too many goals will make things more complicated for you and decrease your chances of success by diverting your attention to often! Now, if you would like to select 3 goals, you may want to choose one personal goal, one professional and one other of your choice. Remember, even if you think everything is going well in your professional life or perhaps in your personal life, that doesn’t mean that you can’t set a goal for that area of your life. I suggest thinking about what is important to you and how you can either a) improve that area of your life or b) continue an already successful or positive trajectory. Maintaining success in an area of your life is often just as difficult or sometimes even more difficult than achieving initial success!
Step 2: Decide on 5-10 steps you can take to set your goal in motion!
A good goal is one where you can see a path of success that can be taken through a series of steps! If you are trying to loose weight you know that these steps may include following a healthy diet plan that can be tracked via a daily caloric intake and an exercise regimen that includes working out a certain number of days a week for a certain amount of time. However, unlike a weight loss goal, many personal and professional goals are not as scientifically precise! Achieving a professional goal to get a specific job may include getting additional training that would make you qualified for that job as well as a discussion about your professional advancement with your supervisor or someone who can help you learn how to position yourself as a desirable candidate. If you do not already have an idea of how to achieve your goal, I suggest researching your specific goal and discussing it with those who may be able to give you insight on the matter!
Step 3: Set parameters for your goal.
It’s all well and good to set a goal, and list out the steps you need to take, but you also need to make sure you have set parameters for when you will start your goal, when you want to have it completed and most importantly, how you will reward yourself for achieving it! The reward is particularly important because this should be something that will highly motivate you and be a constant reminder of the goal you are working towards and why!
Step 4: Take your first step!
As I like to say “once begun, it’s nearly done!” I’m not sure where that comes from, or if I have simply created my own version of another popular saying, but I still consider it truth! Sometimes the hardest part of getting to a destination is starting the journey. Once you take that first step you are invested in your goal and you have made progress! Take your first step as soon as possible, while you are still highly motivated, as this will hopefully propel you to take the next step and the next, until you have reached your goal! Remember, its natural once you have started your journey to tweak your path as needed, don’t be afraid to add steps to your goal or adjust expectations as you go along! Good luck & may this advice help you turn your dreams into a reality!
So, will you be setting goals for yourself this year? Did you find my free printable helpful with helping you track your goals? Let me know any other tips, tweaks or advice you have to help others set and achieve their goals this year but leaving a comment!
SEASONAL STRESS SURVIVAL GUIDE: Navigating the Holidays with Peace and Balance
It’s November, and as the holiday season unfolds, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of festivities, responsibilities, and obligations. But fear not, for amidst the chaos, there are strategies to find tranquility and reclaim your peace of mind. Here’s your seasonal stress survival guide, designed to bring calm to the holiday storm.
TIP 1: PRIORITIZE YOUR MENTAL PEACE OF MIND
The key to a serene holiday season lies in managing your mental capacity. Here are three strategies to help increase your mental resilience:
Strategy 1: Meditate for 30 minutes a day!
Meditation is a powerful tool for calming the mind and reducing stress. To get started, check out these meditation apps I recommend: [Top Meditation Apps for Finding Focus]
Strategy 2: Embrace Gratitude
A gratitude journal can transform your perspective. Consider using a weekly gratitude insert for your planner, available here: [Weekly Gratitude List (A5 Sized)]
Strategy 3: Brain Dump Regularly with Your Planner
The holiday season often brings joy and love, but it also invites germs and bacteria. Fortify your immune system with these simple steps:
Strategy 1: Get a Flu or Covid Shot
Consult your doctor about getting a flu or covid booster shot. Many health insurance providers cover it at low or no cost. Stay protected and keep those around you safe.
Speak to your healthcare provider about the right multivitamin for you. A daily multivitamin can fill nutritional gaps and support your overall health. I take a women’s multivitamin plus extra vitamin c each day to keep my immune system strong.
TIP 3: STOCK UP ON SHORTCUTS
Simplify your routine with these time-saving strategies:
Stay active with a quick high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout. Here’s a routine to get you started: [HIIT Workout]
Strategy 3: Invest in Time-Saving Cleaning Tools
Efficient cleaning tools like a robo vacuum [Amazon Link] and a Swiffer Sweeper [Amazon Link] can lighten your cleaning workload. Plus, save money on Swiffer refills by using paper towel squares for quick cleanups.
By prioritizing your mental well-being, bolstering your immune system, and embracing shortcuts, you can navigate the holiday season with ease. Remember, amidst the hustle and bustle, your peace of mind is invaluable. Wishing you a stress-free and serene holiday season!
Warmly,
Founder, Strange & Charmed 🍂✨
P.S. If you’re looking for more support in living your best, most organized and successful life, consider joining my inner circle private group coaching community called The Charmed Life Master Mind. Each month we meet for live classes, Q+As and monthly planning sessions, plus you have access to an on-demand resource library with dozens of classes, workbooks, planner inserts and other tools to help you craft the life you want to live. Click here to learn more and enroll today for instant access to all my best content and tools!
The way you start your morning sets the tone for the entire day. By incorporating positive habits into your morning routine, you can cultivate a sense of calm, focus, and productivity that carries through the hours ahead. These small but powerful rituals can have a profound impact on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore eight habits that you can add to your morning routine to create a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling day. From setting intentions to nourishing your body and mind, each habit offers a unique opportunity to prioritize self-care, mindfulness, and personal growth. Let’s dive in and discover the transformative power of these morning rituals that can enhance your overall well-being and help you make the most of each day.
#1: Make Your Bed
One of the simplest yet impactful habits you can adopt in your morning routine is making your bed. It may seem like a small and inconsequential task, but it sets the tone for order, organization, and accomplishment right from the start. Making your bed creates a sense of tidiness and provides a clear space to return to at the end of the day. It gives you a visual representation of completing a task, which can boost your motivation and productivity for the rest of the day. Additionally, coming back to a well-made bed in the evening can create a sense of relaxation and promote better sleep hygiene. By cultivating this habit, you cultivate a sense of discipline and attention to detail that can permeate other areas of your life. So take a few extra minutes each morning to straighten the sheets, fluff the pillows, and create a welcoming space to return to later.
#2: Hydrate with Water
After a night of sleep, your body naturally becomes dehydrated. Replenishing your system with water is an essential habit to include in your morning routine. Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal bodily functions, boosting energy levels, and promoting overall well-being. Start by drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up to kickstart your hydration journey for the day. You can even infuse it with a slice of lemon or a few sprigs of mint for added flavor and freshness. By prioritizing hydration in the morning, you’ll not only quench your body’s thirst but also support your digestive system and enhance your mental clarity. Remember, a well-hydrated start sets the foundation for a vibrant and productive day ahead.
#3: Get in Some Movement
To invigorate your body and awaken your muscles, incorporating movement into your morning routine is key. Engaging in physical activity early in the day not only boosts your metabolism but also sets a positive tone for the hours ahead. You don’t have to commit to an intense workout session; even a brief stretching routine, a brisk walk, or a few minutes of yoga can make a significant difference. Not only does movement enhance blood circulation, but it also releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that uplift your mood and reduce stress. Find an activity that resonates with you and aligns with your fitness goals, whether it’s a quick jog, a dance session, or a few rounds of sun salutations. Remember, a little movement in the morning can go a long way in increasing your energy levels and setting a vibrant tone for the rest of the day.
#4: Eat a High Protein Breakfast
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and incorporating a high protein breakfast into your morning routine can provide a strong foundation for sustained energy and optimal nutrition. Protein-rich foods such as eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or a protein smoothie can help you feel fuller for longer, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support muscle recovery and growth. Consuming a balanced breakfast with adequate protein also enhances cognitive function, helping you stay focused and alert throughout the morning. Consider adding healthy fats like avocado or nuts and nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. By prioritizing a high protein breakfast, you set yourself up for success, nourishing your body and fueling it with the nutrients it needs to thrive. Remember, a wholesome morning meal can kickstart your metabolism and keep you energized for the day ahead.
#5: Light a Candle and Set an Intention
Starting your day on a positive note can make all the difference in how you approach the hours ahead. One habit that can truly transform your mornings is to light a candle and set an intention. As the gentle flame flickers, it creates a calming ambiance that sets the stage for mindfulness and reflection. Take a moment to quiet your mind, close your eyes, and visualize the kind of day you want to have. Set an intention, a guiding principle for how you want to show up in the world and interact with others. Whether it’s to be more patient, grateful, or focused, this simple act of lighting a candle and setting an intention can create a powerful ripple effect that resonates throughout your day. So, before you rush into your daily tasks, take a moment to connect with yourself and start your morning with clarity and purpose.
#6: Journal
Taking time to journal in the morning can be a powerful habit that promotes self-reflection, mindfulness, and personal growth. Set aside a few minutes each morning to put pen to paper and let your thoughts flow freely. This practice allows you to unload any lingering concerns or worries from the previous day and start with a clean mental slate. Write about your aspirations, goals, or simply jot down your thoughts and feelings. You can also express gratitude by listing things you’re thankful for, which cultivates a positive mindset. Journaling provides a space for introspection, helping you gain clarity, identify patterns, and gain insights into your own emotions and experiences. It’s a chance to prioritize self-care, nurture your creativity, and set intentions for the day ahead. Embrace the therapeutic power of journaling and make it a cornerstone of your morning routine.
#7: Meditate
In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of stillness and inner calm can be a game-changer, and that’s where meditation comes in. Carving out time in your morning routine for meditation allows you to center yourself, cultivate mindfulness, and bring a sense of tranquility to the start of your day. Find a quiet and comfortable space, sit in a relaxed position, and focus on your breath or a chosen mantra. Allow your thoughts to come and go without judgment, gently guiding your attention back to the present moment. Meditation has numerous benefits, including reducing stress, increasing focus, and improving overall well-being. As you incorporate this practice into your morning routine, you’ll likely notice an increased sense of clarity, resilience, and a greater ability to handle the challenges that may arise during the day. Embrace the stillness within and make meditation a habit that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit.
#8: Make Your Plan for the Day
One of the most effective habits to add to your morning routine is to take a few moments to plan your day ahead. Before the busyness of the day takes hold, sit down with a pen and paper or open your digital planner and outline your tasks, priorities, and goals. By organizing your day in advance, you set a clear direction for your actions and ensure that your time and energy are focused on what truly matters. Consider your to-do list, appointments, and deadlines, and allocate time blocks for specific activities. This practice helps you stay organized, reduces stress, and increases productivity. As you map out your day, remember to also create space for breaks, self-care, and moments of rejuvenation. By proactively planning your day, you gain a sense of control and purpose, enabling you to make the most of each precious hour.
Incorporating these eight habits into your morning routine can make a significant difference in how you approach your day and ultimately, how you live your life. From lighting a candle and setting an intention to making your bed, each habit offers an opportunity to infuse mindfulness, self-care, and positivity into your mornings. Remember, creating a morning routine that works for you is a personal journey, so feel free to experiment and tailor these habits to fit your preferences and lifestyle. As you commit to these practices, you’ll likely experience a greater sense of balance, focus, and well-being throughout your day. So, embrace the power of a purposeful morning routine and watch as it transforms your days, one habit at a time. Start tomorrow morning with intention and let it set the tone for a truly fulfilling and successful day ahead.
Create Your Daily Routine With the My Ideal Day Planning Insert (FREE)
My Ideal Day is a FREE Planning Printable where you can create a 24-hour schedule for yourself outlining a typical day in your life. Think about your ideal day, what activities you would do, what habits and routines you would perform, and what general expectations you have for how you will spend your time. From these expectations and aspirations, outline a daily schedule for yourself where you make time for everything important to you. Then consider what other habits or routines you would need to add into your schedule on a weekly, monthly and quarterly basis- list these out in their appropriate spot on the insert. Use this planning printable to help you guide your daily planning and ensure that you are making time for all the key activities that will keep your life running in sync with your goals!
