The “Mix & Match” Planning Method: How I Build a Planner That Actually Works for My Life

Hey friends!

Can we just agree that no two seasons of life look the same? 🙃

One month I’m juggling work deadlines, cross country practices, and a family calendar that feels like it should come with a referee. The next month things slow down, and I finally have space for rest, reading, and maybe even that closet cleanout I’ve been putting off forever.

And sometimes? It’s both. In the same week.

For years, I tried to force one single planner layout to work for all of that. Spoiler: it didn’t. It was like trying to wear the same outfit to the beach and to a wedding. Technically possible… but not the best idea.

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Why I Stopped Forcing One Layout

Every January, I’d pick a layout and swear THIS was the one. But a few months later I was either cramming too much in… or staring at empty boxes that made me feel like I was failing.

So I’d power through, then give up. Over and over again.

Eventually I realized: the problem wasn’t me. The problem was my planner. It just wasn’t designed to flex when my life shifted.

The Mix & Match Method

Now, I plan like I’m building a capsule wardrobe – mixing and matching pieces to fit the season I’m in!

Here’s how it works 👇

1. Pick a Core Layout (your “everyday jeans”)

• Need detail? → Use a daily layout.
• Need the big picture? → Use a weekly layout.

2. Add Seasonal Extras (your “layering pieces”)

• Busy sports season → add meal planning pages.
• Holidays → pop in a gift tracker + event planning pages.
• Slower months → include a gratitude log or reading list.

3. Switch It Up When Life Changes

No guilt, no starting over. Just switch out the pages you don’t need and add in the ones you do.

4. Keep Anchors the Same

Every week I always include:

• Meal planning
• A few small habits
• One rest rhythm (because this mama needs regular rest 🙋🏼‍♀️)

5. Plan What’s Certain + Leave Margin

Write down the non-negotiables, and give yourself breathing room for the rest. Built-in flexibility = built-in peace.

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The Best Part

Because the S.O.S. Planner is printable, I don’t have to commit to one setup for a whole year. I can change things up as often as I need – without wasting money or starting over.

And honestly? That’s why I actually use it. It always feels like it was built for my real life.

Friend, if you’ve ever felt like your planner “stopped working” halfway through the year, it’s not your fault. You just need a planner that can flex with your season! 💛

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Come Hang Out at the Planner Party!

I’d love to show you how this works in real life. 🎉

Join us for the 2026 Planner Reveal Party – happening on October 13 @ 11 AM PT (on Zoom!)

Here’s what you’ll get:

• A behind-the-scenes look at the 2026 S.O.S. Planner (with HUGE new announcements!)
• How to build your own mix + match setup for your season
• My Weekly Planning Checklist free when you RSVP 🎁

✨ RSVP here: https://anchored-women.com/26plannerparty

Let’s stop forcing our planners to fit every season and start building ones that actually fit the life God has given us right now!

• Get a behind-the-scenes look at the S.O.S. Planner (including the HUGE NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS!)
• Learn how to make your planner work for your season
• Walk away ready to plan your weeks with confidence
• BONUS: RSVP now and get my Weekly Planning Checklist free!