Finding the Perfect Balance: Structured Planning vs. Decorative Planning

Ever been stuck between wanting a super organized planner and craving those beautiful, creative spreads you see all over social media? Girl, I feel you. Today, we’re diving deep into the worlds of structured and decorative planning, and how you can blend them to create the ultimate planning experience. 

Structured Planning: The Blueprint for Success

Structured planning is all about creating a solid system that keeps you on track. It’s like having a best friend who’s always got your back, making sure you’re hitting your goals and staying on top of your game.

Why Structured Planning Is a Game-Changer:

  • Efficiency: Know what’s on your plate and when it needs to get done.
  • Clarity: Get a clear view of your day, week, and month.
  • Consistency: Build routines that keep you grounded.
  • Goal-Oriented: Stay laser-focused on achieving your dreams.

I remember when my life was a hot mess of sticky notes and forgotten deadlines. Structured planning changed everything. Suddenly, I had a roadmap for my days, and reaching my goals felt like a breeze.

Decorative Planning: The Canvas for Your Creativity

Now, let’s talk about decorative planning. This is where you let your personality shine. Think of it as turning your planner into a work of art that reflects who you are.

Why Decorative Planning Is So Dope:

  • Personalization: Make your planner uniquely yours with stickers, colors, and designs.
  • Motivation: A beautiful planner makes you excited to plan.
  • Creativity: Express yourself and have fun with it.
  • Joy: Transform planning from a chore into something you love.

The first time I jazzed up my planner with stickers and washi tape, it was a game-changer. Planning became fun, and I actually looked forward to it every week. It was like therapy, but with stickers.

The Sweet Spot: Combining Structure and Decoration

Imagine combining the best of both worlds—getting stuff done while making it look fabulous. That’s the magic of blending structured and decorative planning.

Why You Need Both:

  • Balanced Approach: Marry efficiency with creativity for the best of both worlds.
  • Personalized Systems: Create a planner that’s structured yet totally you.
  • Enhanced Motivation: A planner that’s functional and beautiful is one you’ll actually use.

Finding this balance was a revelation for me. Suddenly, my planner wasn’t just a tool; it was a reflection of my goals, my style, and my personality.

Tackling Your Planning Woes

We all have our planning struggles—feeling like there’s never enough time, being overwhelmed by to-dos, or just not knowing where to start. But guess what? Your planner can be your secret weapon.

Your Dreams: To stay organized, crush your goals, and still have time for you.

Your Desires: A planner that’s efficient but also reflects your personal style.

Your Frustrations: Feeling torn between being organized and being creative.

I’ve been there, and I know how frustrating it can be. But blending structured and decorative planning can help you tackle these challenges head-on.

Pro Tips for Blending Structured and Decorative Planning

Here’s how you can create a planner that’s both functional and fun:

  • Start with a Base: Begin with a structured layout to organize your tasks and goals.
  • Add Personal Touches: Use stickers, washi tape, and colorful pens to add flair to your planner.
  • Set Aside Time: Dedicate a specific time each week for planning and decorating.
  • Use Themes: Create monthly or weekly themes to keep things interesting.
  • Review and Adjust: Regularly check in and tweak your planner as needed.

Shoutout to Our Subscription Boxes

Let’s talk about how our Goldmine & Coco subscription boxes can help you find that perfect balance:

Monthly Kits (Deco): Packed with dope stickers, washi tape, and more, our monthly kits keep your planner looking fresh and inspiring.

Quarterly Treasure Chest (Systems): For those who need structure, our treasure chest is where it’s at. It’s loaded with organizational systems, goal-setting tools, and essentials to keep you on track.

With our subscription boxes, you’ll have everything you need to keep your planner both functional and fly. It’s like having a planner bestie who always knows what you need.

Remember, planning doesn’t have to be an either/or situation. By blending structured and decorative planning, you can create a system that keeps you organized and inspired. Happy planning, Gem!


4 comments


  • Elizabeth

    Love the blog, keep them coming! I first got into planning in 2022, which is so surprising because it was not my style, however fast forward 2 years and I am all in! I absolutely love all things planning and the GMCC aesthetic is so me. I love all things GMCC❤️


  • Margie

    Perfect timing with this article. I’ve really just started to use my planner/planner supplies and I’ve been doing some decorations here and there. The tips here are good for a beginner, especially since I want to be more intentional with planning, especially structured. It’s good to know both can be done at the same time.


  • Shannon

    Great comments! I totally needed to read this for a different perspective, I never thought about it this way. I am glad I read it.


  • Tina Moss

    This is added confirmation that the time I spent this morning decorating and planning for July was the right thing to do. I am so grateful for the G&C Facebook ad that I clicked on. I’ve found a unique way to do me. Thanks Fe.


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