There’s something about Sundays that makes my brain spin in every direction. Groceries, deadlines, laundry, appointments, calls I haven’t returned, goals I’m avoiding—it all bubbles up at once.
I used to go into the week already feeling behind.
But over time, I created a weekly planning ritual that actually works. No over-planning, no 47-tab to-do list—just a few grounded habits that keep my life somewhat together.
If you’re tired of chasing your week instead of leading it, here’s exactly how I plan mine—without burning out.
1. I Dump Every Thought Out of My Head First
Before anything productive can happen, I do a quick brain dump. I grab a notebook (yes, a real one), and just spill. Everything I’m worried about, stuff I want to do, errands, appointments, even things like “text mom back” or “finally clean out the fridge.”
This clears space in my mind and helps me focus on what actually matters.
(I keep a simple lined journal by my nightstand—it’s my safe space to unload the chaos.)
2. I Set Just 3 Priorities for the Week
I used to try to “do it all,” and guess what? I ended up doing nothing well.
Now, I choose 3 main priorities each week. That’s it. These are things that truly move the needle—whether it's finishing a work project, getting back into my workouts, or finally scheduling that dentist appointment I’ve avoided for 6 months.
Everything else is secondary.
3. I Block My Time Instead of Making a To-Do List
I stopped writing endless to-do lists and started assigning actual times to things. It’s a game-changer.
I open my calendar and block out chunks of time:
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Mornings for deep work (when I’m most focused)
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Afternoons for meetings and admin stuff
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Evenings for downtime, walks, or cooking
It helps me stay realistic and actually finish what I plan.
4. I Plan What We’re Eating—So I Don’t Panic at 6pm
I don’t do fancy meal planning. I just scribble 4–5 dinner ideas and build my grocery list around them. That way, when Monday hits, I’m not staring into the fridge praying for inspiration.
Pro tip: I keep a whiteboard on the fridge so everyone in the house knows what’s coming (and stops asking what’s for dinner!).
5. I Schedule Breaks & Self-Care Like They’re Non-Negotiable
I learned this the hard way: If I don’t schedule rest, I don’t take it.
So now, I block off time for walks, stretching, tea breaks, reading—even naps when I need them. I also diffuse essential oils while I work—it’s a small thing, but it makes my workspace feel calmer and more intentional.
Your nervous system deserves a plan too.
6. I Use a Digital App for the Messy Middle
Notion, Trello, or even just Google Calendar—whatever works for you. I keep all my random tasks, ideas, reminders, and links in one digital space that I can access anywhere.
My paper planner is for quiet reflection. My app is for the chaos.
7. I Lay Out My Clothes and Pack My Bag the Night Before
It takes me less than 10 minutes, but it makes my mornings 10x smoother. Whether I’m heading to a coffee shop, running errands, or filming content, I know what I’m wearing and what I need.
It sounds small, but removing “decision fatigue” early in the day really helps me stay focused.
(Also: I use this vertical hanging organizer to plan outfits for the week—life-saver.)
8. I Tidy My Space Before the Week Starts
I’m not talking about a full-blown deep clean. Just 10 minutes to clear my desk, toss receipts, light a candle, and wipe down the kitchen counter.
A little reset goes a long way. When my space feels fresh, my mind does too.
9. I Batch Similar Tasks Together to Stay Sane
Instead of switching between 10 different types of tasks, I group them.
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Emails? I answer them all at once.
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Filming? I do all my content in one session.
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Errands? I hit all the stops in one trip.
It saves time, energy, and keeps me from feeling scattered.
10. I Always End the Week With a Quick Reflection
On Friday or Sunday night, I do a 10-minute check-in:
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What went well?
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What totally flopped?
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What do I want to do differently next week?
It’s how I stay aware without judging myself. I even jot down a little note in my weekly planner—kind of like leaving future-me a pep talk.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Planning your week isn’t about perfection—it’s about support.
It’s giving yourself the tools to show up for your life with intention, instead of scrambling through it. Whether your week is packed with meetings, kids, side hustles, or rest days—you deserve to feel calm and in control.
Even if your “plan” falls apart midweek (mine often does), you’ll still have a foundation to come back to.
And honestly? That’s what makes all the difference.
#ProductivityTips #TimeManagement #WeeklyPlanning #GetOrganized #WorkSmart #GoalSetting #SelfCare #EfficientLiving #SuccessHabits