PLANNER OPINIONS | A DISCUSSION | WHAT'S HOT, WHAT'S NOT

[@ayanarandolph5778]

I hope that people realize that while content creators do get product sent to them. It is not a TON of product. Most of the product is purchased with their own money or if they just take any random thing from a company. Most creators actually land themselves in debt hauling products to create content. And most people make videos on this. A lot of the free products are usually sent to channels with more subscribers because the companies do want to maximize their earning potential. So when you see these creators hauling things don’t always assume it’s free because they could be going broke buying all that stuff. This is coming from someone who also had a KZbin channel and has spoken with other creators. Also it is annoying when people haul 5+ planners in one video and state that they have no purpose for them. Not because I can’t do it myself but because I watch these videos for inspiration on how to better organize my life and plus it is just wasteful. I also stopped watching these videos because these are the very same people who have tons of anxiety over their planner systems and decision fatigue and if they simply tried less planners at once it wouldn’t feel so overwhelming. It also comes across as not intentional or mindful when you planner hop multiple times throughout the year. I myself have hopped four times, but not at the rate as some of these people. If you hop in and out of a planner after a day, a week, a month, then it wasn’t a well thought out purchase and you probably bought it because you were influenced. Not only that but if something were to happen to you, it would be nearly impossible for your family to find the information that could be critical. Also backdating is annoying I don’t know how people copy information in multiple places, it takes too much time. Again if someone needs something they don’t know where to look and it’s just a waste and how would you archive if that is the case. Planning this way would be a full time or part time job and you have to wonder if you actually get things done instead of spending all your time organizing or thinking about organizing.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

The bigger creators definitely get a good amount of product sent to them to showcase on their channel but us little guys are just showing what we buy and use - that can be very bad for the wallet. I try to watch what I spend and as I said in the video, my haul videos don't perform that well so maybe the tide is changing? I'm quoting you here, 'Also it is annoying when people haul 5+ planners in one video and state that they have no purpose for them. Not because I can’t do it myself but because I watch these videos for inspiration on how to better organize my life and plus it is just wasteful. I also stopped watching these videos because these are the very same people who have tons of anxiety over their planner systems and decision fatigue and if they simply tried less planners at once it wouldn’t feel so overwhelming.' Totally agree with this!! I agree with the planner hopping situation too. How do people keep track of the info that they need?! Great comment and thank you for watching!

[@bad_anima]

Great discussion. And I thought you did a really good job being in front of the camera. Your shirt is so cute!

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Thanks for the compliments! I'm trying to get more comfortable with being in front of the camera but I don't think I'll be making tons of them :) Thank you for watching!

[@Saturdays.Script]

I think Planner hopping and haul content will be less popular in general. I can only speak from my POV, but Im just over that content. It's been played out. It's not coming from a place of FOMO or a lack of funds. I just can't relate to mass waste, and it often feels like manic spending that is masking a deeper issue. Or it feels like certain creators create planner drama just so they have content to share. Im craving more centered content where people are using their planners and stationery in a more grounded and authentic way. Nothing excites me more than seeing a well-used planner full of creative pages that reflect a person's life!

[@stephanieplansandreads]

I didn't even get into the waste issue in the video but you make a great point. I think or at least I hope that people use what they get, if not immediately at least at some point. I have had that same thought about some content creators creating planner drama for content but I do think there are people who genuinely find 'planner peace' hard to come by. I love a well-used planner too! Thank you so much for being here!

[@Hadassahs-Holt]

Hear, hear! I’ve only known about the planner community for two years, but I thought there would be far more content to the content, and less shopping.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

@@Hadassahs-Holt There can be lots of shopping! Thanks for watching :)

[@kathleenducharme5749]

Thank you for letting us see you in person. I get tired of just seeing people's hands. I appreciate that it is anxiety producing but wanted you to know I enjoyed it. As a reseller, I am a Hobonichi girl. The shipping costs are outrageous so I purchase extra product to meet the free shipping mark. I resell the extra on Facebook. The price I sell at is under the U.S. retail price but I do have to factor in the product cost and the tax charged . I am hoping that those who could not afford to buy due to the Hobonichi shipping costs can buy from me. I find people are judgmental and are quick to assume all resellers are out for profit. I agree with you about planner hopping. I don't see the benefit. I also understand the hype of the stickers and it's hard to not feel the FOMO. To me, the planners themselves are expensive. I am strictly a pen and paper girl and add a few travel stickers or photos. That's it. I decided if I were to get a sticker subscription, the cost of my planner would cost many hundreds a year.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Thank you so much for your kind words! This reason for reselling makes sense definitely. The shipping from Japan is prohibitive otherwise for sure.

[@Chaos_and_Creativity]

I also resell stationary when I am able... The things that upset me is when I see resellers taking The Coffee Monster Co washi that Helen designed and sold for $5 and I see people trying to sell ONE roll for $250-$350.. I mean that's just ridiculous to try to make that kind of profit off someone else's artwork.... I get it, she's in high demand and people will spend that and so sellers will keep asking those prices... I understand needing to make a profit, we could all use it I'm sure... But trying to get rich off someone else's brand just gives me an icky feeling. I appreciate what sellers like you do, because without it, single mom's like me couldn't afford to have these nice planner so I'm appreciative of you. I wish I could find a 2025 black gingham cousin for less than $70!!! Lol

[@cristinaballi]

i appreciate your thoughtful and considered commentary - helps me gain insight as i navigate my own planning journey. and I like your kitty! 😊

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Thank you so much! Good luck in your planner journey - it's so much fun!

[@Shirley61581]

I’ve enjoyed this video chat. You did great! As a long time journal/planner person I enjoy much of the planner content, however, I must say I get so frustrated when I see someone title their video ‘Plan With Me’ and then the entire video is them peeling stickers and placing them throughout their journal/planner like they are in 3rd grade! I appreciate a sticker here and there but prefer the doodles of the person that’s journaling… that’s being creative and shows their personality. Anyhoo, I guess I needed the vent regarding stickers! I look forward to more of you and these chatty talks.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Thank you so much! I am guilty of the sticker peeling plan with me. I can't doodle to save my life but I will be relying less on sticker kits going forward (see my sticker discussion video). I try to talk about 'topics' while I put them down but they aren't that interesting, I agree. I'm excited to see where my planning style is going to move to.

[@sambbbb]

For me personally the 'hobby' part of planning/planners is the systemizing aspect. Of course I'm interested in different papers, pens, inks, etc but I spend my entire year thinking about how I could (or will) tweak my system, whether that be next week's layout or next year's books. Over time I learn more about my own needs and preferences, and can further perfect the system. I've been doing this for years and I really enjoy it - in February of this year I was already planning out the details of my hypothetical 2025 system, which of course changed several times! I love analyzing my own tendencies and working out how to best suit/accommodate them. I'm very picky about which books I end up buying, and so it offends my autistic sensibilities when people buy 12 planners 'just to see' what might work for them. In my mind they should have done more research and self-inquiry up front. I'm aware this is quite judgmental, but it's something I really struggle with. I'm also quite bothered by people buying tons of books and then those books quickly selling out, as other people that were very intentional and only planned to buy one thing cannot get them (without going to resale groups, which is annoying). I've seen many people get defensive about this topic, but I don't think there's a good excuse for it - I think it's unkind to others. Especially this year with the SI launch being during US church hours, I know many whose selection was sold out by the time they got out of service an hour later! At the time the Sterling Ink planners launched this year I was on the fence about a specific book, and so I simply didn't buy it. I bought the components of my system I was 100% certain about, and told myself 'it'll come back into stock eventually if you still want it', as I refuse to be beholden to FOMO. I've decided it doesn't really fit in my system, and so I'm very glad I didn't buy it! I do allow myself to make a mid-year purchase if I need a shift, but only with ample thought put into it and never in a way that hinders my current system - and usually only once the item goes on sale. Again, my interest is moreso in theory-crafting and troubleshooting than it is purchasing supplies and overhauling (though admittedly I'm already fantasizing about ripping apart the stalogy and converting it to rings, lol)! I also *hate* leaving books unused or blank, so I find it much less stressful to change up the layout or alter my use rather than buy a whole new book just to temporarily alleviate boredom/stagnation. For others this doesn't bother them at all and I support whatever helps them function or enjoy the hobby, but in many I notice it causes a lot of anxiety and they seem to not be consciously aware of it. I've never cared about the conferences or anything. They seem boring. I did think Yoseka's Stationery Fest was neat, but didn't watch any videos on it other than Megan's. I also think that was a lot more accessible, as I believe it was $20 or something to get in, and I think Yoseka has always done a great job at genuinely cultivating community with their shop. I don't mind haul videos for things like ink samples and random bits from stores like JetPens (because there's often an element of restocking items one is out of, or trying something they logically think will work well for them, as opposed to massive mindless purchasing). I enjoy watching others tweak and experiment, and so I tend to watch channels that have a lot of self-awareness and are thoughtful about their books. One could perhaps call this neuroticism but I'm enjoying myself nonetheless ;)

[@stephanieplansandreads]

First, let me say thank you for this meaty response! Lots to dive into and I love that. The buying of multiple books just in case is going to remain polarizing I think. Some think it's necessary because they need to see the planners to decide and some will think that is selfish because they might miss out on their faves. I see both sides...but then I am a libra (scales, lol). You are very disciplined in your approach (researching, no FOMO and thinking before you buy) and that will serve you well especially budget-wise. I don't think it's neurotic to watch what you like! I'm glad you are here :)

[@kyre6722]

I love your channel, and you are lovely. I'm so glad to have seen your beautiful self!!!

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Thank you for watching!

[@maryannschuetz5155]

LOVED seeing your face ♥🔥 Outstanding video❣

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Oh thank you so much! It's definitely a bit awkward but I'm hoping to get better at it. I appreciate you being here!

[@wendygen]

As a long time rings planner person, it has been difficult to find any ring planner KZbin videos for some time. It looks like bound planners will be with us for awhile. I print my inserts and only have to worry about finding a monthly/yearly calendar insert each year.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

I do see some ring planners still out there making videos but bound planners are having a moment. I'm sure the trends will change again though! Thank you for watching!

[@wendygen]

@@stephanieplansandreads I enjoy watching all types of planner content. Occasionally, I'll try a trend but always end up back in my rings 🤣

[@Chaos_and_Creativity]

I suggest looking at Megan Rhiannon (I think that's her last name) she uses rings.. I actually get recommended quite a few people so I would just give it a search!

[@tonya1592]

I love hobo except for the red boxes, so I decided to go with sterling ink this year which is just a more clean look. But I do like them both!

[@stephanieplansandreads]

I like the neutral look better too but there are pros and cons to both definitely. Thanks for watching!

[@cristinareiser5447]

I am a planner hopper. I buy a lot of undated planners because of this. I get bored with layouts OR they don't work for a specific season of my life and I have to change things up. Sometimes I am so busy that I add a daily planner. I write on the spine what months/years those planners were used. And then, when I leave a planner and go to another planner I make a note in that planner so that I know where to look for the rest of the year. I don't go back and fill anything in obviously because they're undated, but even if it was a dated planner, I wouldn't do that. I would love to stop planner hopping because it can get a little confusing, but unfortunately there is no planner out there that has made me 100% happy 100% of the time and fills my needs 100% of the time. But like Hansel and Gretel, I leave myself crumbs to find my way through my shelf of planners. 😁

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Oh that makes sense. I would need some sort of note to help me remember what was it what. I thought it would be a chore to go back and fill in everything so maybe people just don't do it? Lol at the Hansel and Gretel comparison! Thanks for watching!

[@Chaos_and_Creativity]

I would suggest using a disc system like you said you have, that way you can change out your layouts whenever you want. I used to be the same but with my ADHD I found book bound planners work best.. happy planner gave me too many options and I was so overwhelmed.

[@Jeanniehud]

Wonderful video on catching up with you and a good Planner Chat Stephanie.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Thank you so much Jeannie!

[@oona4611]

I have couple of things that really bug me. First is all the Megan Rhiannon copycats? Don't really know what to call them. But there are so many that have copied her very specific style of video making almost exactly. I'm talking background, the little clips, title style. I mean this is harmless but for me so odd to see. I love watching creators that have their own style, both in their books and videos. One thing I have never understood is sticker kits. I feel like all of them have WAY too much boxes and text that I don't believe anyone uses all of them. This one is silly, because it really is a question of taste, but I just can't with the Sweet Kawaii Designs style of stickers. They are too cutesy for me, and I could never use them. Also the way some pwople say that shops name sounds like Sweet Quiet Designs. It drives me mad. Buying 10 planners and saying in the video I have no idea what to use it for. Then why did you get it?

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Ok, I didn't know or haven't been paying attention to the Megan copycats. I think we all take inspiration and ideas from each other but yeah, I would hope that we do our own thing. I discussed the sticker kits in my other video but I'm not a big box user either. I like when people are honest when they buy multiple planners and just say I have no use for it but I liked it and wanted it rather than say that they are going to use it for wellness and then it is never used again LOL. Thank you so much for your comment!

[@northernvault2247]

A B6 Full Year Sterling Ink was sold for $115. Thats crazy. Im a functional planner. I do like stickers but at the end of the day I only have time to write in my planner.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

No way really?! I blame the person who bought it as much as who sold it. Thanks for being here!

[@Chaos_and_Creativity]

Absolutely insane... I just saw a roll of TCMC for $350... Absolutely INSANE to try to make that kind of profit off someone else's brand. But I do blame the buyers too because people know they can sell it.

[@BobbieLovesBeauty]

Yes, I do one and a half times speed to

[@stephanieplansandreads]

The best way to watch 😀

[@CreatingSelfCarePlans]

I happen to be an affiliate for a few brands in the planning space and I will say that I do feel pressure sometimes to promote sales and new things even if I’m not planning to buy those things for myself. I have to constantly think about what I am willing to promote and what I won’t, even if it means I risk getting less collaboration opportunities because my sales numbers are lower. I don’t want to be a sales person for the brand. I don’t want all my videos to be me showing off products that I received for free just to review. Or for me to only share or talk about something because it could lead to an affiliate link. I almost rushed filming a planner review video for a planner I purchased before Thanksgiving because I knew it could lead to affiliate sales for people shopping Black Friday. But, instead, I decided against it because the stress to do it in the time I had wasn’t worth it. I personally don’t like when it’s obvious a video was made with the sole purpose of getting me to try and buy. My biggest annoyance is when affiliates receive products for free and call them a “haul.” A haul to me means you spent your own money. It’s misleading and click baiting. I guess that’s my hot take. 😂

[@stephanieplansandreads]

I can't say that I disagree with you here. I wouldn't feel right just promoting a brand because they sent me free stuff but I do think it is hard for people when they are trying to make a living off of social media and creating content. And I agree, a haul is spending the money. Here is a load of stuff I was sent for free doesn't have the same ring to it LOL. Thanks for watching and for your comment!

[@ruthevans6027]

I love sticker kits but it’s just too cost prohibitive for me.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

Can be quite expensive especially if you do one for every week of the year! Thanks for being here!

[@ruthevans6027]

There’s also planner fatigue.

[@stephanieplansandreads]

I have never got this only because I need to use one otherwise I will not remember anything. I constantly have to go back and look at past ones to know what happened when. I do use sticky notes too though and will make lists on those instead of in my planner.

[@ruthevans6027]

I’m the same about planner hopping 😂

[@stephanieplansandreads]

I'd forget everything! Thank you so much for watching!