60 Useful Lists Ideas to Include in Your Planner to Track Today

A planner can be a total life saver when it comes to tracking your everyday essentials. If you’re anything like me, you probably love the feeling of writing things down on paper. There’s just something about it that feels grounding, right? If you’ve got a planner sitting on your desk or tucked into your bag, let’s make it even more useful. Here are 60 list ideas you can add to your planner that will make your life easier, more organized, and honestly, more fun to look back on.

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For all my fellow planner lovers, you know the drill. That feeling of scribbling down notes, doodling in the margins, and checking things off your lists is just unmatched.

Let’s be real. The excitement of writing in your planner is often way more fun than actually getting stuff done. Don’t you agree? I know I can’t be the only one who spends more time decorating and planning than actually completing the tasks. But hey, if it keeps us sane, then why not.

If you love making lists, you’re going to enjoy this one. I’m sharing 60 super useful lists you can add to your planner. Some are practical, some are fun, and some will help you grow as a person. And the best part is, once you start writing these lists down, you’ll see how much easier it becomes to stay on top of your busy life.

Why you should write helpful lists in your planner

Life is busy. Like really busy. Between work, family, errands, random appointments, and those surprise things that always pop up, it’s impossible to remember everything in your head.

That’s why planners exist. They give your brain a break. Instead of holding on to a million thoughts and tasks, you dump it all in one place. Out of your head, onto paper. Instant relief.

When you write lists in your planner, you’re not just organizing your day. You’re giving yourself clarity. You’re taking back control of the chaos. Even better, when you flip back through old pages, you can see how much you’ve done and how far you’ve come. It’s like a little record of your life.

I promise, once you get into the habit of keeping lists, you’ll feel less stressed, more productive, and way less likely to forget something important. And isn’t that what we all want?

So, grab your pen and planner. Let’s get into these ideas.

Work and Important Lists

These are the lists that will keep you on top of the serious stuff. Think of them as your go-to lists when life feels like a whirlwind.

1. Goal of the day – Write one main goal to focus on. Keeps you from feeling overwhelmed.
2. Next week’s goals – Jot down what you’d like to accomplish soon.
3. To-do list of the day – The classic list we all need.
4. Weekly meal plan – Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Saves you from last-minute stress.
5. Weekly goals – A small vision for the week ahead.
6. Urgent tasks and deadlines – For things that cannot wait.
7. Expense tracker – Helps you stay on top of your money.
8. Content ideas (for creators) – Keep track of video or post ideas before they slip away.
9. Project ideas – For work, side hustles, or creative hobbies.
10. Income tracker – See how much you’re making each month.
11. Appointments – Doctor visits, meetings, reminders.
12. Brainstorm list – Dump all your random thoughts in one place.

Fun Lists to Include in Your Planner

Because life isn’t all work and bills. Sometimes you just need a place to collect all the fun stuff.

13. Favorite TV shows – Old ones and new ones you’re hooked on.
14. Bucket list – Dream trips, experiences, or skills you want to try.
15. Fun ideas for boredom – A go-to list when you’re feeling blah.
16. Loved ones’ birthdays and anniversaries – Never forget again.
17. Gift ideas – Perfect for last-minute shopping.
18. Date night ideas – Sweet, simple, or adventurous.
19. Restaurants and cafes to try – Keep a list of places you’ve been eyeing.
20. Books to read – Because recommendations come and go fast.
21. Shows and movies you’ve watched – Fun to look back on.
22. Favorite books you’ve read – Build your own library of memories.
23. Wishlist – Handy for sharing with family before the holidays.
24. New recipes to try – Collect from friends or Pinterest.
25. Songs you love – Create your own soundtrack.
26. Favorite podcasts – Episodes or shows worth revisiting.

Personal Growth Lists

These lists will help you grow, reflect, and take care of your mental and emotional health.

27. Financial goals – Long-term and short-term.
28. Things that make you happy – Instant mood boost.
29. Daily self-care ideas – Quick ways to recharge.
30. Affirmations – Positive words to remind yourself.
31. Daily wins – Even the tiny victories count.
32. Habits you want to build – Track progress and patterns.
33. Gratitude list – Always something to be thankful for.
34. Fitness goals – Simple, realistic ones work best.
35. Relationship goals – With a partner, family, or friends.
36. Daily inspirational quotes – Words that lift you up.
37. Health goals – Focus on feeling good, not just numbers.
38. Skills you want to learn – Languages, crafts, or hobbies.

Personal Care Lists

Everyday life stuff that makes things run smoother.

39. Cleaning list – Break it into daily, weekly, monthly tasks.
40. Grocery list – Save time and money at the store.
41. Usernames and passwords – Keep them safe in your planner.
42. Stores you need to visit – And what you need from each.
43. Repurchase items – Things you run out of often.
44. Areas to simplify in your home – Keep clutter away.
45. Festival or holiday must-buys – Decorations, gifts, outfits.
46. Subscriptions to cancel or renew – Saves money and headaches.
47. House repairs list – Track what needs fixing.
48. Favorite cleaning products – The ones that really work.

Travel Lists

For when you’re planning your next trip or just dreaming of one.

49. Travel bucket list – Countries, cities, or hidden gems.
50. Winter travel essentials – Cozy clothes and must-haves.
51. Summer travel essentials – Light outfits and sunscreen.
52. Carry-on essentials – Snacks, headphones, and comfort items.
53. Packing list – Never forget your charger again.
54. Sightseeing locations – Attractions to visit on your trip.
55. Road trip playlist – Music that keeps you going.
56. Travel budget – Plan costs before you go.
57. Souvenirs to buy – Ideas for family or yourself.
58. Restaurants to try abroad – Save recommendations in advance.
59. Hotels or stays you want to book – Keep options handy.
60. Emergency contacts for travel – Super important and often forgotten.

Conclusion

And there you have it. Sixty lists to make your planner the ultimate tool for organizing your life. Some are fun, some are practical, and all of them will make your planner feel like your best friend.

Remember, the goal is not perfection. You don’t have to fill out every list every single day. The point is to use your planner as a place to unload your brain, spark joy, and give yourself clarity.

Honestly, lists are like little lifesavers. They help you keep track of the big stuff and the little stuff. And when life feels too much, writing it all down gives you peace of mind.

So go ahead, start with a few lists that speak to you most. Add more as you go. Make it personal. Make it fun. And most of all, enjoy the process. Because your planner is more than just paper. It’s your space, your record, and your little piece of calm in a busy world.