Merging Digital Platforms with Paper Planners

With technology’s rapid growth, we are beginning to see more digital planners arise. If you’re reading this, you’re probably a lot like me. I’m old fashion and write everything down… and I mean everything.

Taking advantage of online resources like Google Calendar or any digital platform prevents clutter. However, a paper lover knows all too well the discouraging feeling of surplus digital invitations. There’s a constant debate on which method works best. I’m here to tell you that you can be both! So, how can we merge the two worlds of digital planning and hard copy planning?

Determine the Strengths

The key to effortlessly combining paper and digital planning tools is determining the strengths of each platform. Digital planning offers an efficient way to organize your events all on your device allowing access for multiple people to add or edit an event. On the contrary, pen and paper provides a more organic way to plan. Additionally, you are able to creatively express yourself more with a hardcopy planner. Speaking from a personal perspective, it’s a little easier for me to remember things when I write it down.

C&P’s Tips

After learning the ins and outs of each platform, here are some tips to help you choose what suits you best and help you combine the two:

* Create and maintain a task list. You can utilize both platforms through tasks lists. When I receive a digital invite, I like to put as much detail in my calendar as possible. That includes time, date, place, with whom, etc. After organizing your calendar online, transfer details to your hardcopy planner. Writing your tasks down reinforces your commitment by creating a higher level of personal investment encouraging you to complete the task.

* Color code everything. This tip is great for visual learners. Differentiate work from home, main priority from less priority, and more by color coding. Digital planners utilize this feature fantastically and can help you see your day, week, or month at a glance. When it comes to paper planners, using different colored markers or highlighters will help you separate your duties.

* Use alerts and notification systems. If you typically like to write down your reminders, try plugging it into your smartphone simultaneously. Just like handwriting tasks, push notifications help you remember things. Never miss a meeting or appointment by creating this habit.

* Plan accordingly. The key to digital planning is simply taking it step-by-step. Most planners come with a monthly, weekly, and daily views. I use the monthly view to schedule recurring events: birthdays, holidays, bill due dates, etc. While the weekly view is more for specific things like running errands or completing goals. Lastly, the daily view to keep track of “to-do’s” or plan daily meals, outfits, etc.

Planning is fun and isn’t a one-size-fits-all. You can bridge the gap between the two platforms by utilizing which features suit you best. The best part of planning is trying new things to find what works for you. Have you considered combining digital planning with your paper planner? If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences are with it.