If there's one thing I've learned from juggling four kids, a 9-to-5, content creation, and still trying to show up as my best self – it's that intentional planning isn't just nice to have, it's a must-have. Today, I'm sharing how to create a weekly planning system that actually works, especially for my fellow multifaceted moms who are trying to juggle what’s on their ‘plate’ while maintaining their sanity.

First Things First: Give Yourself the Gift of Planning Time

When you fail to plan, you plan to fail – periodt. But before you can even think about creating this intentional weekly plan, you need to block off time to actually make it happen. And I already know what you're thinking – "Girl, what time?" Trust me, I get it. Between work meetings, extracurricular activities, and trying to keep tiny humans alive, time feels like that friend who never shows up. But here's the thing: you don't need a whole day. Some of you can knock this out in 15 minutes, while others might need a solid hour. The key is finding what works for YOU.

If you're struggling to find the time, let me put you on game with some creative solutions:

• Turn that waiting-at-practice time into planning time

• Have a planning lunch break (because multitasking is our superpower)

• Wake up 30 minutes to an hour before the kids (your future self will thank you)

• Make it part of your Sunday reset routine

Get Those Calendars in Formation

Whether you have one or multiple calendars, grab it/them! As a multifaceted woman, I'm looking at my 9-to-5 calendar, my Google calendar for personal and business stuff, and making sure our family's dry erase board stays updated. It might seem like a lot, but trust – this synchronization is key to keeping everyone in the loop and avoiding those dreaded double-bookings that have us looking crazy.

Set the Mood, Set the Tone

Now, this is where we level up from basic planning to creating a whole vibe. Because if we're going to do this, we might as well do it right. Clear off that desk (because clutter is not giving what it's supposed to give), light that bougie candle you've been saving, and put on whatever music gets you in your zone. For me, that's sometimes gospel, sometimes Beyoncé – depends on the day! And if you're a praying sis like me, take a moment to center yourself and invite divine guidance into your planning session.

Assess Your Intentions, Goals, and Schedules (Because We're Not Just Surviving, We're Thriving)

We're not just going week to week checking off responsibilities like robots. Sis, you've got dreams, goals, and a whole vision board waiting to become reality. Take a good look at your intentions for the week. Maybe it's being more present with your kids, maybe it's finally working on that side hustle, or maybe it's simply making time for that workout class you keep putting off. Whatever it is, write it down.

Pull up those schedules and really look at what's on deck:

• Work commitments

• Family obligations (who's got practice when?)

• Personal appointments (self-care isn't selfish)

• Those goals you've been putting off (we're making time for them now!)

• And whatever else…

Check Your Bandwidth (Because Burnout Isn't Cute)

Listen, if there's one thing we need to normalize, it's knowing our limits and respecting them. As you're planning your week, be real with yourself about your bandwidth. Some weeks you're giving main character energy, other weeks you're just trying to make it to Friday – and both are perfectly okay!

Here's how to keep it real with your capacity:

• Look at each day and assess your energy levels

• Build in buffer time (because Atlanta traffic ain't no joke)

• Identify what you can delegate (you're not meant to do it all alone)

• Know when to say "not this week" (no is a complete sentence)

Create That Plan (And Make It Make Sense)

Now it's time to put it all together in a way that works for YOU. Whether you're team digital, team paper planner, or team "write it on your phone notes" – the key is consistency. Personally, I love using a combination of my digital calendar for all the things and paper for daily tasks. The satisfaction of physically checking off a task? Unmatched.

Alert Your People (Because Communication is Key)

This step is crucial. Once you've got your plan together, make sure everyone who needs to know is in the loop. Whether that's your partner, your kids, your village, or your team at work – clear communication prevents those "I thought you were handling that" moments that have us all stressed.

Follow Through with Grace and Grind

Some days you'll crush every single task on your list. Other days? You might need to extend yourself some grace. Both are part of the journey.

Remember:

• Progress over perfection

• Adjust as needed (because life happens)

• Celebrate your wins (big AND small)

• Keep showing up for yourself

At the end of the day, this planning system is about supporting YOU in living your best life – not adding another thing to stress about. Take what works for you, leave what doesn't, and keep glowing as you go.

Drop a comment below and let me know: What's your biggest planning challenge? Let's help each other grow and glow!

Keep glowing,

Shalyce