We all know that planner you bought for the new school year hasn’t been put to good use.

Most classes are online and many social aspects of college have been reduced to whatever we can do through online video opportunities, leaving those empty calendar pages open for interpretation. Many people support the use of a weekly planner and respond with positive feedback on the reduction of stress and the beginning of healthy habits. Now that we’ve established the pros of using a weekly planner, let’s answer the real question – how do you fill those empty pages? 

Self-Care

You can repurpose it for art or self-care. Most of the time, we can get stressed with how much we think we need to accomplish in a day. Writing down meal plans for the week, fitness routine strategies, and when to go to online classes during the day can reduce stress and increase your sense of accomplishment. Our social calendars may be abbreviated, but our mental health status with thrive.

Journaling

Another idea for your planner is to repurpose it for journaling. Instead of writing what you want to get done during your day, write about what you did during that day. If you’re prone to fill the day with plans as the day goes on, this method is for you. Planning ahead can reduce stress, but writing about what you accomplished in the day can also accomplish the same goal.

Now that you’ve got some fun ideas for your weekly calendar, start planning!

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Ashley R.