Happy 2017! How To Have The Best Year Ever!

I know, I know. Ideally, we should have gotten ready for 2017 BEFORE the new year began. But if you've been with me a while, you've no doubt heard me say....you can start fresh whenever you want! A truth be told, I spent the holiday season relaxing and spending time with loved ones -- not prepping for the new year. So now here we are, January 3, 2017 and I'm finally getting myself organized. So let's dive into my suggestions and what I'm actually doing to set myself up to have the best year ever -- one that is productive, organized and joyful.

1. Make A Manifestation Board

This is such a powerful concept! But honestly, it's pretty much the same thing as a vision board. Putting your hopes, dreams, and goals into a physical form really does help them come true. It's a visual reminder of what you're working towards. 

2. Pick Your One Little Word or Your Monthly Theme

I LOVE the idea of choosing a theme for each month. It helps to break down your goals and make them more achievable. Plus our seasons change so we can change our theme accordingly. But I think choosing a word or phrase for the entire year is a good idea too! Take some time to think this through. What do you want to accomplish in 2017? How do you want to feel? 

3. Choose & Setup Your Planner

Being organized comes in many different shapes & forms. So take a little time to explore the different calendar / planner options and choose what you think will be a good fit for you. If you have no idea where to start, I made a video talking about the basics of choosing a planner and reviewing some different planner options. That should be a big help!

And then once you've picked your planner for the new year, now comes the fun part: setting it up! If you're going with a 6 ring binder, you'll have a little bit more work in front of you. But even if you choose a spiral-bound planner, take some time to put in important days and events as well as your theme for each month or season! You can play around with stickers and different inserts -- the possibilities are endless! I designed a 2017 Planner Sticker Set with monthly stickers, daily little reminders and a place for you to write out your own goals. Check it out here. Also, here's a look at my 2017 Planner Setup to give you some ideas!

4. Practice Gratitude

Take some time to write out the things you were thankful for in 2016. What went well? What did you accomplish? What made you happy? And most importantly -- Who are you grateful to have in your life? Spend 5 minutes writing a quick thank you email or mail a card to those people who played a vital part in your life this past year. As I posted recently on Instagram, a grateful heart is a magnet for miracles!

5. Clean Up Your Social Media Accounts

I talked about this in my recent video on how I was getting ready for the new year, but go through your social media accounts and make sure the accounts you are following still serve your purpose. Also, make sure you're still following the accounts you want to follow. Clean up any old photos in your feed that don't fit your aesthetic. And most importantly, update your profile picture! It's a new year, start fresh!

6. Clean Up Your Inbox

First of all, DELETE any old emails or archive them. If you're a Gmail user, make folders and develop a system for dealing with your emails. I sometimes use my emails as a to-do list (horrible, I know) so I take time to go through my unread emails and make sure there aren't urgent matters that need to be taken care of. And for the love of all that is good and holy, UNSUBSCRIBE from emails subscription lists that are pointless and just clutter your inbox.

7. Clean Your Technology

Take the case off your cell phone and iPad and get those little crumbs out of there ;) Clean your technology with a sanitizing wipe and let everything breathe a little. Now is a good time to go through your phone and delete unused and unwanted apps, photos and contacts. Clean it out!!

8. Take Care of Admin Type Things

I consider any of the non-fun [aka boring ;)] life things we all have to do: admin. Although this isn't the  most category, it's essential. So set aside a little time to take care of these admin type things and put a structure in place so it's easy peasy moving forward. Put insurance verification in your car and in your wallet, make sure you have a place for incoming mail, review old bills and shred unnecessary papers, auto-schedule as many bills as possible.

9. Review Your Budget & Finances

I know I have said this before, but as women it is critical, essential, imperative that we be educated about MONEY! Learn about it. And pay attention to your own money. Log into your bank accounts and look at the numbers. You cannot make any changes in your financial life until you understand what is going on! Check out my financial basics video to learn more.

10. Get Your Head On Straight

I know we all have stress and difficulties in our life. Make a conscious effort to let go of the thoughts and beliefs that are holding you back and no longer serve you. I don't think that is going to happen overnight nor will you be able to just magically let go of it all and never think another negative thought. Recognize and appreciate that it's a process. But also make a decision that you are going to walk down this path now. And keep moving forward. More self-love and positive self-talk. More affirmations and manifestations of abundance and joy. 

How To Choose A Planner & Get Organized for 2017

One of the questions I get asked most frequently is How To Choose A Planner. Whether you're new to organizing and just want to get started or you're an expert at the organization game, choosing a planner can be so daunting. There are so many options!

First up, let's talk about the basic type of planner categories. The biggest choice you need to make is the way the planner is bound -- spiral vs 6 ring binder. There are pros and cons to each type. A spiral planner can be more compact and easier to store on your desk, but a 6 ring binder (like Filofax) offers way more customization options.

The next thing to consider is the page layout. Do you need one day per page? How many activities will you be tracking? Do you have a lot of appointments? Will a week on two pages suffice? Do you like a timetable to be included to keep track of your how you use your time?

Check out my YouTube video for a closer look into some planner options. I recommend all of these planners! Just depends on which one fits your needs. Also, as I mention in the video, be flexible! You may need to change out your planner until you find an organization system that works for you!

Also, as you begin to prepare for 2017 (it's so close!), don't forget to pick up my new 2017 Planner Sticker Set! This DIY sticker set is super easy to download and print - it will help you get organized in the new year!

xo

Mae

My 2017 Organization | Get Ready & Plan With Me!

The New Year will be here for you know it. Last year, I felt totally frantic as it approached. In fact, I was so not ready for the New Year, that I decided that February would be my new January ;) But this year, things are a little different. I'm at a different season of life, I'm wrapping things up on some major projects and I feel ready to move on to the new year and a fresh start. So how do you get ready for the new year? Well, I'm sharing my tips on how to get organized for 2017 in my latest video below. Practical steps that I'm actually doing to prepare and make sure that I will be successful in the new year. 

But, the most exciting part -- I am releasing an entire line of digital products to help you be more productive and efficient! YAY! 

First up, is my new DIY planner sticker set for 2017! It includes daily reminders for the new year as well room to write out your goals in your planner. The best part, because these are easy DIY planner stickers and you get the file, you can print as many as you want and need! Please check them out and let me know what you think!

Check out my latest YouTube video to see exactly what I am doing to prepare for a productive and organized new year! And stay tuned because there are more videos in this 2017 organization series - including how to choose a planner and more.

One Little Word

If you're interested in learning more on how to choose your one little word for the new year, be sure to check out my 2015 organization series -- it's a great introduction, full of amazing tips and very useful!

Please share your tips and suggestions for getting organized for 2017 in the comments! And don't forget to check out my 2017 planner sticker set!!

Prepping for 2017 | Filofax Saffiano Gold A5 Agenda & Notebook!

How To Choose A Planner for 2017

It's the best time of the year! Time to pick out a new planner and other organization tools ;) As we begin to prep for 2017 and all that the new year will bring, I like to explore different options for getting and staying organized. 

I've made several YouTube videos in the past, and I will show y'all even more choices in the next few months on how to choose a planner for 2017. 

(Make sure you're subscribed to my YouTube channel so you don't miss out!)

Let's kick it off this year with the stunningly gorgeous gold saffiano series from Filofax. 

If you've been with me for a while, you know I am an avid fan of Filofax and the customization options they offer! The team at Filofax was gracious enough to gift me a couple items from their new GOLD line. OMG.

First, let's talk about the notebook. I am OBSESSED! This has literally everything I have ever wanted in a notebook. I love the spiral but you can also insert and remove pages as you wish. The best!

The A5 size, 6 ring binder is of course beautiful and functional as well. The Saffiano fabrication is sturdy and chic with that signature cross-hatching (think the gorgeous Prada Saffiano bags!) It also has a bit of a cushion so it is a thicker binder. 

The card slots are perfect for added organization. And there's a pen loop too!

As with any 6 ring binder -- you can customize this to no end! Filofax provides a dashboard and dividers, as well as a weekly calendar. 

However, there are tons of options for custom dashboards and calendars. 
Check out my tutorial for making your own custom dividers! 

And of course, no planner would be complete without my adorable planner stickers! 
There are so many fabulous, chic options to choose from. 

(And check out my accompanying video for instructions on how to print your own planner stickers. Super easy!)

Do you have a Filofax planner?

What system will you be using to stay organized in 2017?

Stay tuned for more in this series and 

subscribe to my YouTube channel to see my 2017 Planner Setup!

Gold & Silver Filofax Original!!

I know I've said this a million times before, but I've always been a paper planner girl. I always loved getting a new planner, even if it wasn't the beginning of the year, and filling it in with important dates and to-dos. I've fallen in love with various planners over time, but these two are BY FAR my most favorite ever. I love Gold. I love the Filofax Original. I love these planners!!

I also ended up ordering the silver Filofax Original as well because I knew I would regret it if I didn't it. It was a bit of process to get these in, but totally worth it. 

What do you guys think? Aren't they beautiful?! x

Flip through of the new ban.do 2014 - 2015 planner!

You guys!! This new planner / agenda from ban.do is seriously the cutest I've ever seen! Y'all know by now that I'm pretty much addicted to planners, agendas and organizational tools. There's just something about moving into a fresh new planner with pretty, clean pages. #crazylady

Anyway, I love ban.do --- it's such a colorful, whimsical brand. Remember the poufs that got them started? A lot of the aesthetic reminds me of Kate Spade. As soon as I saw the agenda, I knew I had to have it. I honestly don't know how much I will actually use it (again…. #crazylady) but I just had to have it. 

For me, it's not the most practical because it's designed like a book (as opposed to with rings or spiral binding) so it doesn't lay super flat (not too bad either though) 

I'm not usually drawn to much color or whimsy (that's why I never jumped onto the Erin Condren Life Planner bandwagon) but for some reason I just couldn't resist this one.

Really I just wanted it to look through and use for a little while. As many of you know, I've alternated between using my Filofax Original in patent nude and my beloved Sugar Paper LA for Target calendar.

Here's a quick look through the book -- you will love it!!

Isn't it sooooo cute?!

Let me know if you order one!

And please don't forgot to check out my YouTube channel and subscribe :)

xo

Getting Organized in 2014

You guys have probably already figured out by now that I am obsessed with stationery….calendars, planners, Filofax, notebooks, pens, paper, washi tape…you name it, I love it.

I'm also a big organization freak. 

So put the two together and you have my stylish (albeit sometimes expensive) system and tips to get you organized in 2014 and hopefully help you stayed organized!

Who had that at the top of their 2014 new year's resolutions?!

Check out my latest YouTube video to see how I went from using a single Kate Spade agenda to 3 items --a SugarPaper for Target calendar, Louis Vuitton agenda and a project management notebook.

This system works so well for me! I hope it will be helpful to you too!

Here's to all the best in 2014

Happy New Year!

Happy Organizing!

xx

ps- I've been really trying to get back into posting regular videos on YouTube!

I love it

Subscribe to my YouTube channel to get all my latest beauty, style and organizational videos

I usually share makeup reviews, skincare routines, style tips and advice on staying organized

but if you have any video requests…please send them my way!

Guest Post | Plan on It: Ashley's Organization

You guys! I am over the moon to have Ashley from One Fine Day here sharing her planner and organizational tips. We started out as Instagram friends and then I saw her blog...omg! I love her design aesthetic and she makes the most lovely, colorful posts. I've been thinking for a while now about featuring different creatives & how they stay organized, and I immediately knew I wanted to reach out to Ashley first. I am always so curious what other people's planners look like and what cute office supplies they're using. (Anyone else?! Please tell me I'm not the only one who thinks that way!) 

So honored to have Ashley here today giving us a peek into her planner and the tools she uses to stay organized!

***

My sister said she always remembered the definition of Type-A because she associated it with Type-Ashley — that's me! When she told me this a few years ago, I beamed! I like to think I'm a list maker and organizing extraordinaire. In all honesty, I just have an affinity for paper and office supplies, and I suppose this is just another excuse to buy more of it! Because I take lots of pride in finding a great notepad or pen, the search for the perfect planner was a feat I didn't take lightly. It's taken me a few years to find THE one, and I'm so excited to share the details with you. Here's a glance at my favorite way to stay organized, along with a few fun accessories that help get the job done in style!

Russell + Hazel Mini Binder: Earlier this year, I bought my first Russell + Hazel binder and I'm obsessed. Depending on your needs, you can customize it with various inserts and file folders. I ended up choosing the monthly and weekly calendar options along with the address pages. Since I went this route, my planner also doubles as an address book. I like that you can pick and choose your own options to make the planner the most user-friendly to you and your needs.

Washi Tape: I'm a Washi Tape fanatic, so I'm always looking for different ways to use it. I was browsing Pinterest and saw someone incorporate it into their planner to color code the week's events. GENIUS! As soon as I got my binder, I loaded up on lots of colorful rolls and it's worked wonders. Not to mention, it's a cute way to stay on top of your schedule! I color code my week by appointments, blog posts, birthdays and holidays, etc.

Task Clips: This is a great way to prioritize tasks and section off your binder into specific categories.

Oops! Pencil Eraser: It's always good to have one of these handy. Go on and just pencil it in...

Mini Index Dividers: Because I wanted my binder to serve several purposes, I knew I'd need dividers to help section off the monthly calendars, weekly planners, addresses, and notes.

Tape Dispenser: Since I use Washi Tape regularly, I swapped the clear tape for colorful Washi instead. It's readily available on my desktop to be used for random tasks, but mostly for my planner.

Stick 'Em Up Notepads: I typically stick these in my planner with the day's to-do lists and reminders. List makers gonna list...

Ruler: A vibrant and handy tool to create charts and make lists.

LePen: I love these pens, especially for the purpose of writing in my planner. They don't smudge and they don't leave any marks on the pages underneath. SCORE!

Get It Done Notepad: As if I really need another notepad, this one has a quirky illustration that makes adding and crossing items off that pesky to-do list a lot more bearable. 

Work Hard & Be Kind Pencils: Because sometimes there are things you want to write down, but you're unsure of the date, time, etc. If I want to have the option to erase and move to a later date, I opt for a pencil instead. You might as well use something charming and it doubles as a darling desk accessory. 

***

How adorable is she?!

So happy we connected and that Ashley shared a bit of her office with us!

Thanks Ashley!

xx

If you're an organization junkie and you'd like to feature your planner and tips here on the blog, 

please do drop me a line! I LOVE getting a peek into other people's planners!

Review | Russell + Hazel Smart Date System

I feel kinda controversial saying this, but here goes: I do not like the Russell + Hazel Smart Date System.  There, I said it. I feel better. Maybe I just didn't buy the right products, but I'm not happy with the organizational planner system. Of course I researched the heck out of this agenda/planner before I bought it and there were tons of rave reviews so I felt comfortable spending close to $100 on it all. But, I don't think it's easy to use, logical or functional. And then there's the issue of price. It's expensive. I spent $18 for the binder itself (special edition, no longer available), $24 for the monthly tabs and $12 for the weekly. Plus tax and shipping, I was close to $80. Then there were no pockets to store loose papers so I had to spend $8 at Office Depot to buy plastic pockets for the binder. (Thankfully, they fit.) And then another $15 for lined paper for notes, lists, etc.

I can't really pinpoint why I don't like the system but it just doesn't work for me. The monthly tab pages are ok, but I needed weekly sheets for day-to-day appointments so I had to fit those pages in between the monthly tabs. Then I needed paper for to-do lists and jotting down random ideas. I put that in the back but it wasn't separated from the calendar part so I had to flip through pages to find them. At this point, I had spent so much money, I just wasn't willing to buy separator tabs. 

I found the system to be a little cumbersome and not really that organized at all. I was stressed just having to open the thing. And I was put-off by having to spend so much money to buy every little thing. Oh and one more thing I bought, the rubber band set. Those are super cute! I don't really use them for the binder, but I do put them on other notebooks. I got the chevron and zebra set. I love those little zebras. (You can see the chevron band up top, on my gold journal.)

So over all, I don't recommend this system. Maybe if I would have bought a couple more things it would have worked better. I don't think it's a complete waste though, I decided to just keep the lined paper in the binder and use it as a notebook/journal. Also, I LOVE the signature pattern on the binder so if nothing else, it will make a pretty decoration on my desk.

Are you using the Russell + Hazel smart date planner system? 

Do you love it?

If not, what agenda are you currently using? 

ps-

I'm backing to using the myAgenda in leopard

Again, I don't love it, but it works better than the R+H

Quick Tips :: Closet Organizing

Don't you wish your closet looked like this?! 

In between one of the craziest weeks I started to organize my closet.  I know I always say it was a crazy week but seriously: I returned from Montreal late Monday evening. Straight into meetings all day Tuesday. And Wednesday was the most random day. I've often joked that I have multiple personalities....well, a careful review of the day's activities might just confirm that. Young professional meeting in the morning, lunch with the voice of our University's football program to review the upcoming season (YES!), afternoon coffee about the community's non-profit organizations, an invitation to be a judge at a pageant, and topped it all off with a Yanni concert.  Ran-dom. Just typing that out made me laugh, I love all the layers of my life. Anyway, all this to say that I had a lot going on but I still managed to go on a major organizing spree! No excuses ;)

Here are my quick tips for getting that closet in perfect shape for Fall!

What tips do you have for organizing your closet?

Please do share

hope your weekend is wonderful,

xx

{ps}:

let's talk giveaways!

the winner of the Barbara necklace 

from my boutique is Michelle

congrats girl, I've sent you an email

don't forget to enter the Protect Your Pumps giveaway

such a fantastic style solution!