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10 Most Planned Activities (and How to Simplify Them)

Deniz Özdemir
Deniz Özdemir

Planning, it’s how we attempt to bring order to the chaos of life. Whether it’s figuring out your week, saving for a dream vacation, or organizing a dinner party that won’t end in you ordering pizza, we all do it. Some plans come together easily, while others… not so much.

Here’s a list of the 10 most common things people plan and some simple tips to make them less overwhelming (and maybe even enjoyable).

1. Daily Schedules

You start every day with high hopes: “I’ll tackle my to-do list, crush my goals, and maybe even call Mom!” Fast forward to 3 p.m., and you’re scrolling TikTok wondering where the time went.

  • Simplify It: Instead of cramming 10 things into your day, focus on 2-3 priorities and let everything else be extra credit. Also, schedule time for breaks burnout isn’t productive!

2. Travel Plans

Travel planning sounds fun until you’re knee-deep in flight comparisons and wondering if a 30-minute layover is a gamble worth taking.

  • Simplify It: Start with the essentials, flights and accommodations. Once that’s set, add the fun stuff like activities and restaurants. And always leave room for spontaneity.

3. Budgets

Money planning often feels like a balancing act between paying bills and living your best life. Spoiler: that iced latte isn’t the villain here.

  • Simplify It: Use the 50/30/20 rule; 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings. Build a small “fun fund” so you don’t feel deprived.

4. Meal Planning

It’s 6 p.m., and you’re standing in front of your fridge hoping dinner will magically assemble itself. Spoiler: it won’t.

  • Simplify It: Spend 10 minutes on Sunday planning meals for the week. Stick to recipes with shared ingredients to save time and money. Bonus: leftovers are your best friend.

5. Events

From birthdays to weddings, event planning can feel like juggling flaming swords while blindfolded.

  • Simplify It: Start with the basics: date, location, and budget. Once those are locked in, tackle the extras like themes or playlists. And don’t be afraid to delegate yes, even the playlist.

6. Projects

Big projects are exciting until they feel impossible. Whether it’s redecorating a room or launching a business, it’s easy to get stuck before you even start.

  • Simplify It: Break it down into smaller steps and tackle one thing at a time. Progress is progress, even if it’s just buying paint samples or drafting ideas.

7. Career Goals

Advancing your career is like navigating a long road trip you need a destination and a map (and maybe snacks).

  • Simplify It: Think short-term and long-term. Take one actionable step today, whether it’s updating your resume or signing up for a course.

8. Fitness Goals

You start strong: new gym clothes, a playlist, and ambitious goals. Then life happens, and suddenly, “leg day” becomes “Netflix day.”

  • Simplify It: Start small like a 10-minute walk. Celebrate progress, no matter how small. It’s about consistency, not perfection.

9. Home Improvements

Fixing things around the house can feel like an endless to-do list. (Looking at you, squeaky door and leaky faucet.)

  • Simplify It: Make a list of what really needs attention. Start with small wins like changing light bulbs before diving into bigger projects.

10. Learning Something New

From acing an exam to picking up a hobby (hello, guitar lessons), learning requires focus and a plan.

  • Simplify It: Dedicate 20 minutes a day to practice or study. Small, consistent effort beats cramming every time.

Why We Plan

Planning doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. It’s about giving yourself a roadmap to follow while still being flexible when things don’t go perfectly (because, let’s face it, they rarely do).

If you want to take the hassle out of planning, check out Nudger. It’s a tool designed to help you organize your life without the headaches, turning goals into actionable steps.

What’s the next thing on your planning list? Let us know we’d love to hear your tips and tricks!