This year I’ve started to use my Erin Condren more for blog planning, specifically the monthly notes page. It is helping me stay organized and helps me keep track of my blogging ideas, pitches, goals and to-do lists. Today I’m sharing how I utilize the page for blogging.
I have four sections on my monthly notes page. I typically use one color pen for consistency and I stick with a color that matches the planner that month. For June I wrote in green and used a couple of stickers. I don’t go too crazy with stickers on this page because I just need it to be functional.
Goals:
I write my monthly blog goals in the top circles. I typically set an income goal in the first circle and I use another to list how many blog posts I want to write a week. The next two can be used for any other goals I want to pursue. For the past two months I have wanted to participate in a giveaway, as well as film at least three videos to be published on my YouTube channel and in my posts.
Blog Post Ideas:
On the left column of the notes page I write down blog post ideas for the month. I then check them off as I complete them or cross them off if I don’t get to them. I transfer unused ideas from previous months if they are still relevant and I still want to write them.
Pitches/Collaborations:
I keep a list of brands I want to work with and the results of pitches on the right. For example, I will write down “Sponsored post” and an amount to the right of the brand name. I like to keep track of how often I am collaborating and how much I earn. (I also track income and expenses in Excel.)
To-Do List/Social Media:
I use the bottom rectangle space to jot down things I want to accomplish this month for blogging. This typically includes administrative tasks. I previously also used this space to track social media follower growth, but this month that is pictured I didn’t. On the first of the month I will write down my beginning number and on the last day I list my ending figure. I also include the difference. This helps me see where to put my focus the following month.
I find that this layout is minimal but works. It keeps me organized and I can turn to my list of blogging ideas if I’m not feeling inspired. Do you own an Erin Condren planner? How do you use your monthly notes page? I’d love to hear and see your ideas!
Marette Flora is the founder of Floradise blog and personalized gift shop. Marette is a passionate storyteller and creator. She attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication.
She is passionate about creating helpful and meaningful things.