How I Plan My Week and My Days: A Step-by-Step Guide

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As a solopreneur, staying organised and focused is essential to making the most of my time. Over the years, I’ve developed a planning method that helps me keep my priorities straight and ensures that I’m always working towards my goals. Here’s a look at how I plan my week and my day, broken down into simple, actionable steps.

1. Start with the Regular Tasks

The first thing I do is list all the regular tasks that need to be done each week. These are the foundational tasks that keep my business running smoothly. Whether it’s planning social media content, writing blog posts, or managing client communications, these tasks are non-negotiable and form the backbone of my weekly routine.

• Social Media Content: Planning and scheduling posts for the week.
• Blog Writing: Ensuring I create valuable content regularly.
• Client Communication: Keeping in touch with clients and addressing their needs.
• Financial Management: Reviewing finances, sending invoices, and tracking expenses.
• Campaign Development: Working on new marketing campaigns or product launches.

2. Brain Dump All Projects and Tasks

Once I’ve listed my regular tasks, I move on to the brain dump. This is where I jot down every project and task that’s on my mind and aligns with my goals for the week. The key here is to get everything out of my head and onto paper (or a digital tool) so that nothing gets forgotten.

This might include:

• Creating and editing Reels for social media.
• Launching a new marketing campaign.
• Updating my website with fresh content and testimonials.
• Planning and executing a photoshoot.
• Contacting influencers for potential collaborations.

3. Schedule in Free Time and Appointments

With all my tasks listed, I start scheduling. But it’s not just about work—I make sure to schedule in all my free time too. This includes my morning routines, lunch breaks, exercise sessions, and any appointments I might have. Scheduling these helps me maintain balance and ensures I don’t overcommit.

• Morning Routine: A consistent start to the day that sets the tone.
• Exercise: I usually take a walk in the afternoon to clear my mind.
• Appointments: Whether it’s a client meeting or a personal appointment, it goes into the schedule.

4. Use Colour Coding to Stay Organised

One of the tools that really helps me stay on track is colour coding. I use different coloured pens or digital labels to categorise my tasks. This visual organisation makes it easy to see what’s on my plate at a glance and helps me quickly identify where my focus needs to be.

Choose your colours but here's an example;

• Gold for golden time
• Grey for appointments
• Green for personal time.
• Brown for emails/ housekeeping/checking social media

Colour coding keeps everything clear and reduces the mental load of trying to prioritise tasks on the fly.

5. Time Block for Emails and Social Media

I also make sure to time block specific periods for checking emails and managing social media. These are necessary tasks, but they can easily take over your day if not managed properly. By setting aside dedicated time blocks, I prevent these tasks from stealing time away from more productive work.

• Emails: Checked once in the morning and once in the afternoon.
• Social Media: Managed during a set time to avoid constant distractions.

6. Protect Your Golden Time

Golden time is the period of the day when I’m most focused and productive. I protect this time fiercely, using it for deep, uninterrupted work. During golden time, I tackle my most important projects—the ones that require my full attention and brainpower.

• Golden Time: Typically in the morning when my energy levels are highest.

7. Choose the Top 3 Tasks for the Day

At the start of each day, I choose the three most important tasks or projects that need to be accomplished. These are the tasks that will move the needle the most, and I make sure they’re scheduled into my golden time. This method helps me stay focused on what truly matters and prevents me from getting sidetracked by less important tasks.

• Top 3 Tasks: Carefully selected to align with my weekly goals.

Why This Method Works

This planning method isn’t just about getting things done—it’s about focusing on what truly matters. By starting with regular tasks, then brain dumping all additional projects, and carefully scheduling everything, I ensure that I’m lways working efficiently and effectively. The use of colour coding adds an extra layer of clarity, while time blocking for emails and social media keeps distractions at bay. Protecting my golden time and prioritising my top 3 tasks each day ensures that I stay on track and avoid overwhelm.

What’s Your Planning Method?

Do you have a system that works for you? Or do you think this method could help you stay organised and productive? I’d love to hear about your planning strategies and any tips you might have. Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep the conversation going!

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