So you're thinking about getting into digital planning? Or maybe you've already started but feel like you're not quite getting it right? I've been there, and I want to share what's actually worked for me.

1. Find a Tool You'll Actually Use

Here's the thing—there are SO many digital planning apps out there. Notion, GoodNotes, Google Calendar, Todoist... the list goes on. But honestly? The best one is whichever you'll actually open every day. I've tried probably a dozen different apps, and I've learned that fancy features don't matter if the app feels like a chore to use. Start with something simple, play around with it for a week or two, and see if it feels natural. Don't overthink it.

2. Check In With Your Planner Every Day

I know, I know—this sounds obvious. But it's easy to set up a beautiful digital planner and then... forget about it for three weeks. Trust me, I've done this more times than I'd like to admit. The game-changer for me was spending just five minutes every morning with my planner and a cup of coffee. I look at what's coming up, move around tasks if needed, and get my head in the game. It's become part of my routine, like brushing my teeth, and it makes all the difference.

3. Templates Are Your Friend (But Don't Go Overboard)

One of the coolest things about digital planning is that you can save templates for stuff you do all the time. Weekly reviews, grocery lists, meeting agendas—whatever you're doing repeatedly, make a template for it. It'll save you tons of time. But here's my warning: don't spend three hours making the perfect template when you could've just done the actual thing in ten minutes. Been there, done that, learned my lesson.

4. Keep Your Calendar and Tasks Together

This one took me way too long to figure out. For years, I had my calendar in one app and my to-do list in another, and I was constantly double-booking myself or forgetting tasks because I couldn't see everything at once. Now I either use one app that does both, or I make sure my apps sync with each other. Being able to see your meetings AND your tasks in one place? Total game-changer.

5. Seriously, Keep It Simple

Look, I get it. It's super tempting to build this amazing, color-coded system with tags and filters and links and databases. And maybe that works for some people! But for most of us? It's just too much to keep up with. Start basic—like, really basic. A place for tasks, a calendar, maybe some notes. That's it. You can always add more later if you need it, but chances are you won't. The best system is one you can actually maintain when life gets crazy.

Digital planning can be amazing once you find your groove. Just remember it's supposed to make your life easier, not become another thing to stress about. Start simple, be consistent, and don't be afraid to adjust as you go. You've got this!

Happy Planning!

xoxo - Michele @TheAwesomePlanner