Choosing a Planner // It may not seem like it, but this planner is going to be your best friend over the entirety of the year. It's best to choose a planner that you're in absolute love with, especially one with a weekly view. Into minimalism? I recommend browsing sites like Muji, which curate some of the finest Japanese products with the minimalist in mind. Looking to steal a tip from your favorite insta-blogger? Try Kikki K's infamous site of must-have planners. A bit pricey, but completely worth it. If you're like me and are looking for a cute animal-based print, try digging through Amazon for any Sanrio-inspired products, like this kawaii Molang Rabbit planner!

Choosing Goals + Creating Deadlines // Ask yourself, "Why did I want planner in the first place?". Was it because you wanted to save more money this year, or perhaps stay on top of a particular reoccurring deadline? The bottom line is most likely this- you want to live a more stress-free, happy lifestyle.

Outlining your goals comes next- if you want to save more money, try jotting down some of your most-purchased categories and keep track of how much you spend in that particular week. I have categories like Food, Gas, Bills, Cosplay Materials, and Etc/'Fun Money' in my planner. The following week, try to spend even less than you did previously, especially in the 'fun money' categories (which typically consists of things that you probably didn't need).

If you're a cosplayer, try creating deadlines for yourself and stick to them. Have an armor build in the works? Try completing one major piece each week- this will help you stay focused and on-track to creating a cosplay that wasn't rushed. I recommend painting all of the pieces together in one go, so the color schemes match and won't look like they were painted by different people (painting on different days will show). Keep little details like this in mind to avoid the cosplay crunch.

Finding Inspiration // If you're all about the aesthetics, I recommend following a few well-known #PlannerAddicts on Instagram or Bloglovin'. It'll keep you inspired through the day-to-day struggle of holding yourself accountable, and perhaps in time, you'll find the extra effort of decorating your planner to be that much more rewarding! Try following my favorites, PaperedHearts, SimplyGilded and MyDecoratedBliss.

Will you be using a planner this year? Let me know what your tips for staying on top of things are in the comments below!