6 Surprising Benefits of Planning

The act of planning, particularly using a paper planner or calendar, has lots of proven benefits, including helping with time management and organization (even when everything doesn’t go as planned). But what about the hidden benefits of planning highly organized and successful people use to their advantage? Here are six more benefits of planning (plus a bonus benefit at the end) that you may find as surprising as they are helpful!
1. Planning helps you declutter.
Studies report clutter can negatively affect your memory, mental health, and even eating habits. Using a paper planner is a simple and effective way to download your mind onto paper so you can cut the clutter and streamline everything else. Added bonus: it makes it easier to declutter and organize your favorite spaces, freeing you up to live and perform at your best!
2. Planning helps reduce stress.
Planning is the most effective stress management technique. Proactive planning, instead of passive living, is proven to reduce stress. Infuse motivational and inspirational elements in your planning to go beyond reducing stress to finding joy. 92% of LifePlanner™ customers report it helps them reduce stress.
3. Planning can improve learning.
Researchers have found that planning on paper helps improve learning and memory. Write it down and plan it out! (Your brain will thank you!)

4. Planning can make you happier.
Research suggests planning for something can increase your happiness. Just looking at a schedule and seeing that you have an upcoming event or vacation you look forward to can lead to positive anticipation and feelings of happiness! 97% of LifePlanner™ customers report it brings them joy.
5. Planning promotes mindfulness.
Writing down your plans in a paper planner makes you slow down, unplug, and be more intentional and mindful.
6. Planning improves your odds of success.

Planning with a paper planner increases your ability to track your short- and long-term goals. It keeps you accountable and helps you plot out and follow the necessary steps needed for your personal and professional success.
Need a quick productivity boost? Planning can do that, too!
94% of LifePlanner™ customers report it helps them be more productive. Writing down your plans allows you to go back and see which of your activities are productive and which are slowing you down, which can make you more efficient, free up more of your time, and get you closer to reaching your goals.

Experience the benefits of planning for yourself. Explore our best planners or take a quick planner quiz to find a planner that makes your life easier!