Finding My Functional Style | How I Decide on a Planner System

Thanks to my friend Lisa for requesting a video on how I've found my style. Spoiler: it's an always evolving process but I do have some tips to share. There will be two videos in this series. This first video discusses how I find my functional style and decide on a planner system. This is a chatty video, so you may want to grab your journal or planner, a snack, etc. and join me! Please feel free to see the time stamps below, and to check out Part 2. Thank you for watching. 💛
Part 2: • Finding My Decorative ...
Questions
3:38 Why do I want a planner?
5:21 What do I want to keep track of?
7:00 Is there a format I prefer?
10:51 Where will I use it?
12:26 How and when will I incorporate it into my routine?
15:42 Suggestions
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INSTAGRAM
Find me on instagram at @ellies.corner.2019
/ ellies.corner.2019
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RELEVANT VIDEOS
Part 2: Finding My Decorative Style | Planners & Journals
• Finding My Decorative ...
Bullet Journal Playlist
• April 2021 Flip Throug...
2021 Bullet Journal Playlist
• May 2021 Flip Through ...
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PLANNERS MENTIONED
Bullet Journal | A5 Leuchtturm
bullet-journal-canada.myshopi...
Sojourner | A5 Folio
Gedi leather with Gedi scoop pocket, add on caramel closure, asked for a snug fit
sojournerusa.squarespace.com/p...
Superior Labor Leather Clip 2 Pen Holder
Natural leather
wonderpens.ca/products/center...
Jibun Techo Lite
www.kokuyo.com/en/products/ji...
Hobonichi Weeks
www.1101.com/store/techo/en/l...
Hobonichi Cousin
*I am using the Cousin Avec
www.1101.com/store/techo/en/l...
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Please note that this video is not intended for children aged 13 years or younger.
Thank you so much for watching!

[@Michelle-kw8dc]

This is what I'm going through now! I second ALL of these tips. I think one thing I'd add to the question of what to keep track of is about what feels like too much, or what feels like "not my monkeys", or what can be separated by the why, what, how, and where. I got so frustrated with my planner and wouldn't ever open it because I was trying to fit everything into it. The best thing I did for my planning was to get some home calendars, and we put our meal plans, to-buy lists, and long-term to-do lists as a household on them. It relieved so much pressure and made space for all the things I actually wanted to apply myself to.

[@elliescorner2019]

Those are great suggestions! I find myself saying some variation of “not my monkeys” often - there is so much planner inspiration out there that I need to consciously remind myself to only take what realistically works for me. Thank you for watching and for sharing how you’ve separated some aspects of your planning so that it’s more functional for you - that makes total sense! 😊

[@JT1358]

I can admire and appreciate the bullet journal layouts but making them is not for me. My own planners are tools not art projects and my style is checklists... endless checklists... and horizontal... Thanks for putting this all so concisely - looking forward to part 2 !

[@elliescorner2019]

Thanks for watching and sharing how you use your planners! I find it so interesting to see/hear how we all have different approaches and find (or make) systems to fit our needs. 🥰 When it comes down to it, lists are also at the core of my system - it’s how I process information best!

[@CsprsSassyHrly]

I found your video a few months ago and it was these questions that made me realize the A5 Leuchtturm bullet journal method that I had been in for years, just felt overwhelming. I’m not a sticker, artsy, or even marker person - my bujo was pen only, but as a grad student, setting up a new one every semester, as well as the dashboard overview layout I did every week (which was pretty much a hand drawn Hobonichi weeks layout, so super easy to set up) just became too burdensome. So I moved into the Hobonichi Cousin, because it was the closest structure to what I did in my bujo in terms of having a place for monthly, weekly, and dailies, but I have since found that while I prefer making lists, the vertical/hourly layout just doesn’t work for my brain (it’s really hard for my brain to ignore pre-printed things so if it says hourly, I am compelled to use it as an hourly layout and hourly layouts do not work for me) plus right now, an A5 was just too much real estate that I just didn’t want or need, add that to the heft (if I try a cousin again in the future, I may slim down to an Avec)… and within two weeks of starting to use the cousin, I was buying a Hobonichi Weeks. I’ve realized just how much I needed something that was portable - I like to have everything together but an A5 hard cover was too big/bulky to bring with me everywhere, so I was forced to keep some things separate, like a B5 for shopping only, which meant that the notes in the A5 to add something to my grocery list would sometimes get lost. I also love that it forces me to be organized - an A5, because it has sooo much space and sooo many pages, allowed me to scribble notes all over, which made my brain unhappy when I was trying to go back and find things. But now, because the pages are so small and the boxes are tiny, I have to take a breather when I’m writing in it, forcing me to really think about what I’m writing, instead of writing random notes that I have to decipher later. Anyways, that very wordy semi brief planner story to say thank you. If it had not been for this video, I think I’d still be overwhelmed in an A5 bujo and would never have found the Weeks, which has really been a godsend at this point in time for me.

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much for sharing! 💛 I’m so glad to hear that this video helped you reflect on what works best for you. I find that it can become easy to get “stuck” in a system without even realizing it, especially if it’s a system that seems to work so well for others! The Weeks sounds so functional and portable for you. I hear you about “unlimited space” feeling overwhelming. I switched planners in 2022 because the bullet journal simply wasn’t working for me when I was in the classroom. Trial and error can be fun, but there is something so refreshing and comfortable about finding what FITS for you in this moment. I’m glad you’ve found your fit, and I truly appreciate you taking the time to share. 😘

[@leejournals]

This is so good! I really like the comparison with loving and appreciating someone's style but realizing it might not work for you (yes bullet journal, I'm looking at you) :) I look forward to part 2!

[@elliescorner2019]

lol yes!! I feel like most of us have that system that we love and admire and WANT to work… and it just doesn’t fit. 🤷🏻‍♀️😅 So we can love and admire someone else’s! Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words, Lee! 🥰

[@melissabridge5687]

These are Great questions to ask oneself. I realized a few years ago that I wanted one book for all my needs. Future appts/plans, current week, and journaling/memory keeping. I tried all the cute small sizes but always needed a second or third book to meet my needs.Then I found the Hobonichi Cousin Avec. Game changer. With 2 books, an A5 size was not to heavy for my EDC and it became an all in one for me. I do use a Weeks for list making Shopping list, packing lists, thing to get done at work ect...It is my not so pretty note book. I will put dated things from work and doctors appts., if it is the only one with meat that moment, but always transfer to my Cousin. But any more my Cousin goes everywhere.

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much for watching and for sharing, Melissa! It sounds like you’ve also gone through the trial and error process to figure out what works best for you… trial and error is the best method I’ve found. 😄 Now you can admire the small sizes from afar while being happy in your A5! I’ve never used the Cousin as a planner but I can see what a great system it would be for that! Space for everything! 🤩

[@theartsylife16]

I've been stuck with my planners and this video just helped me a ton! Thank you so much for this info and breaking down the issues many of us have with our planner systems!

[@elliescorner2019]

Oh I’m so glad to hear that was helpful to you!! Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching. 🥰

[@debbiesokoloff1991]

The questions you proposed are so helpful, and your reasonable and accepting approach is reassuring; much appreciated!

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much, Debbie! I appreciate your kind words and am so glad you found the video helpful. 💛

[@suzisaintjames]

I love printing my own inserts for my half sheet notebook. I like half sheet (5.5x8.5) because there's only one cut when I buy a ream of letter sized paper... and I like the real estate. It fits in my bag and I only have to design a layout once and then print it out for later months. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@elliescorner2019]

It sounds like you’ve found a system that works so well for you! Thank you for sharing and for watching. 🥰

[@tortagialla]

Thanks for sharing your helpful thoughts! I agree with the trial and error and not jumping in too fast with purchasing... it's always so tempting but so much can change once you use (or don't use) something on a daily basis :)

[@elliescorner2019]

Exactly!! Things that seem perfect in theory often don’t work in practice. I’m getting better about holding off on excessive purchases, but you’re right, it’s so tempting. 🙈 Thank you for watching!

[@ScientistPlans]

I love this video!!! thanks so much for putting into words the complexity that it is to think of all the important aspects going in our heads about our planner system! So good, Ellie! I am currently tending to more portable planners now and I am a big fan of your bujo! :)

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much, Cecilia!! 🥰 I am so glad this video makes sense - it was harder than I expected to try and explain all of my rambling thoughts. 😅 Portability can be such an important factor! I love how you use your systems, especially the A6 for your work planner. 😍

[@shelbseroo]

I'm behind on KZbin and Journalling this month. Pulled out my journal tonight and did some backfilling while watching you. Thanks for the good chat. 😘

[@elliescorner2019]

Aww I love hearing that you journaled while watching this!! I always appreciate your support, Shelby. 😘

[@DasOrangensaft.]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and tips. This is so helpful!

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you for watching and for your kind words! I’m so glad you found it helpful. ☺️

[@raya.journals]

Such a great and helpful video Ellie! I absolutely love seeing the process people undertake to find a system that works for them, so this was very enjoyable! And absolutely love those questions - i've been using the same ones in coming up with a system that works for me too! And big yes to trial and error! As always, thank you so much for sharing! Keen for part 2!

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much, Raya! 🤗 I agree - hearing about people’s processes is so interesting and helpful. I’m glad I’m not the only one who asks themselves a bunch of questions to try and narrow things down. And even after all of that, trial and error always happens and that’s okay. 💛

[@teresedwards8052]

Very much appreciated video. I've just started about a year ago. Can't wait for part2!💕 Thanks

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much for your kind words, Teres! 💛

[@quoththecrow]

This is such a great video, Ellie! Super helpful! Thank you! ❤️

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much Jackie, I appreciate that! 💛

[@talksfromtheheart]

Great job on this video keeping your thoughts and advice organized. Very good advice and this is a great addition to KZbin.

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much Robin, that means a lot to me! 💛

[@LisaTackett69]

Great video, Ellie! I appreciate you taking the time to share these helpful tips. I've been making some lists of what I need/want in my system. I do like what you said about not being afraid to try a new system and that trial and error is really the only way to know if it will work or not. Hopefully by December I will know what I want to use. 😆

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much, Lisa!! 😘 I’m so glad you suggested this video, it really made me think about how I focus on my planner wants and needs. Making lists is always a great start! I usually end up making a few before making a decision… and then reminding myself that I can always change my mind. 🤪

[@ModPlans]

Thank you for breaking it down for us! So helpful!

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you for watching - I’m so glad you found it helpful!! 🥰

[@BlushnBlue]

Great information Ellie, thank you for sharing.

[@elliescorner2019]

I’m glad you found it helpful - thank you so much for watching, Donna! 🤗

[@inlesinlet]

Oh, Ellie, this is *exactly* what I needed! 🤩 I'm going to watch this again immediately and try to answer the questions as I go along. I think I'll also slightly adjust these questions for my chaotic "life book" situation, because that's more difficult than the planner for me these days 😰

[@elliescorner2019]

Oh I’m SO glad you found it helpful, thank you for sharing!! And I hope you’re feeling better. 💛

[@holly_hobbies4053]

This was a great video and one I needed!

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you so much, Holly! I’m so glad you found it helpful. ☺️

[@biancashearing4926]

Great video! Thanks!!

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you! ☺️

[@allyleech]

I definitely needed this reality check, thanks Ellie. Great video. I’ve found I love the look of vertical to time block but it doesn’t really work for me. I’ll be using a Hobo Weeks next year so I suppose I’ll see how I go.

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you Ally, I’m so glad you found this helpful! 💛 I think we can all use a reality check sometimes (maybe even more so around planner release season? 😉😅.) It’s so funny how sometimes the layout we think will be great just doesn’t work. I hope the Weeks is a better fit for you!

[@xShadesx3]

Where’s that double pen loop from? It’s amazing!!

[@elliescorner2019]

It’s by The Superior Labor company and it really is gorgeous. It also hasn’t moved at ALL since I put it on in May. I ordered mine from Wonder Pens (a shop in Canada). Thanks for watching! ☺️

[@dollyrevenge98]

Hi Ellie, thanks for this video. I use Google calendar and digital note apps for important daily events and tasks however I do like to randomly write things down regarding a number of things. A number someone gave me, brainstorm random ideas, random thoughts, diary style journaling things I want to buy, skin care routine,....and I'm looking for a system that would work for this random note taking.I already have a Leuchtturm 1917 in which I do note thing in randomly but no system. Do you think setting tabs in it and using it a notebook/habit tracker is a good idea ?

[@elliescorner2019]

I think the Leuchtturm could work well! One thing I find really helpful is using an Index in my bullet journal so that I can find any collections/notes/etc. easily. If that interests you I’d recommend watching some of the @bulletjournal videos on Indexing and Threading. You could also add tabs and leave them in as divided sections. It wouldn’t be as flexible, but you could keep your notes categorized that way. Or you could write all notes as they come, and then add tabs to pages that you’ll want to refer to often! Some people swear by tabs. Hopefully one of these options resonates with you! Personally, I would use indexing and threading and just write my notes as I needed to. Another thing I do sometimes is add some notes or collections starting from the front of the notebook, and some from the back. For example, notes that I know I’ll reference often will all be added to the back of the notebook, and more casual notes from the front. I hope this helps! Thank you for watching. ☺️

[@dollyrevenge98]

@@elliescorner2019 ​Thanks for the tips. I watched your 2021 setup video and got ideas of what I want to do. A mixture of indexing half of the notebook (front pages) and adding tabs/dividers to the rest for easy access. The ratio depends on what I do more ofcourse.I loved how you added a tab to your words & goals page as it makes it easy to just flip through through to that page and actually read it.

[@elliescorner2019]

@@dollyrevenge98 That sounds like it will work really well! Adding tabs to my most referenced pages has been so helpful. 🤩

[@TwoMiceOnMyBookshelf]

A frivolous question: May I know the specs of your A5 Sojourner cover? 😁 Thank you for your tips in this video and thanks in advance for your response to my cover question 😬

[@elliescorner2019]

Thank you for watching! I always struggle with measuring, but from my best attempts the cover is 12 7/8" wide when laying flat and 8 3/4" tall. These are rough measurements with my notebook inside the cover, and I would definitely suggest emailing Sojourner for more specific measurements, but I hope this helped! 😅

[@TwoMiceOnMyBookshelf]

@@elliescorner2019 I meant the leather so sorry!! Thanks for your trouble! I will note those measurements for other cover creators 😄

[@elliescorner2019]

@@TwoMiceOnMyBookshelf 🤦🏻‍♀️That makes more sense, sorry! 😂 This is the Gedi folio with the scoop pocket. On the Sojourner site I believe it’s under Special Combinations, Gedi x3. I also asked for a snug fit because I knew my bullet journal wouldn’t get too fluffy!

[@TwoMiceOnMyBookshelf]

@@elliescorner2019 Aaaah the Gedi. OK! These leathers don’t only look different at times but also feels so very different in the hand and in reality. For example Sojourner’s nude leather feels as if there is a layer of varnish over it I don’t know how else to put it. It isn’t as supple as I expected and although it tanned, it doesn’t patina in the same way as most of my other nude leather. Thank you for the info! 😁😁😁

[@elliescorner2019]

@@TwoMiceOnMyBookshelf I hear you, it’s so hard to choose leathers without feeling them first!