There’s something about January that makes my inner list-maker rejoice. The fresh start of a new year, the blank slate of possibility—it’s a perfect opportunity to pull out my favorite pens and brand new planner and start plotting out everything I want to accomplish. And when I say everything, I mean everything. I’ve been a list maker for as long as I can remember. Grocery lists, packing lists, to-do lists, gift idea lists—if it can be written down, I’ve got a list for it.
But let’s face it, the beginning of a new year can also bring an overwhelming amount of pressure. There’s a temptation to overplan and overpromise, which can quickly turn the excitement of goal setting into a whirlwind of stress. So this year, I’m leaning into my love of lists but with a twist—I’m focusing on simplicity, intentionality, and fun. Here’s how I’m planning my year without overwhelming myself:
1. Start with a Brain Dump
I begin by clearing out the mental clutter with a brain dump. This is where I jot down every single thing swirling around in my head—from big goals like “plan a family vacation” to small tasks like “replace the batteries in the smoke detectors.” No item is too big or small to make the list. It’s like giving my mind a chance to exhale.
2. Create Categories
Once I have my master list, I start organizing it into categories. For example:
- Home: Projects, repairs, and decluttering tasks.
- Work: Content ideas, deadlines, and professional goals.
- Personal: Books I want to read, hobbies to explore, or self-care practices to prioritize.
- Family: Activities, traditions to continue, and new memories to create.
Breaking everything into sections helps me see where my energy needs to go and makes the big list feel more manageable.
3. Prioritize with the 3-Item Rule
To avoid overwhelm, I’ve adopted the 3-item rule. Each week, I pick three main tasks to focus on. These are the “big rocks” that will move the needle on my goals. Everything else becomes optional. This approach keeps me from feeling like I need to do it all at once and helps me celebrate small wins.
4. Make It Fun
One of the best parts of being a list maker is that I can make the process as enjoyable as possible. I use colorful pens, stickers, and washi tape to brighten up my planner. Sometimes, I’ll even make a playlist or light a candle while I work on my lists. It’s all about turning planning into a self-care ritual instead of a chore.
Check out my Planner Pinterest Board
5. Leave Room for Flexibility
Life happens, and plans will change. This year, I’m reminding myself that my lists are guides, not rigid contracts. If I don’t get everything done, it’s okay. The goal is progress, not perfection.
6. Celebrate Progress
Instead of waiting until December to reflect on my accomplishments, I’m taking time every month to review what’s been checked off and what’s left. It’s a chance to celebrate progress and adjust my lists as needed. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to see how much I’ve already accomplished.
Why January Lists Are the Best
There’s just something magical about this time of year. January lists feel full of potential, like planting seeds for a beautiful garden. By taking a mindful and intentional approach to planning, I’m setting myself up for a year that’s productive, balanced, and, most importantly, joyful.
If you’re a list maker like me, I’d love to hear how you’re planning your year. Are you trying something new or sticking to tried-and-true methods? Let’s inspire each other to make 2025 our most organized and fulfilling year yet!
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
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