The Joy Of Finding A Notebook-Diary To Plan The New Year

Whether you plan every hour of the day or just enjoy doodling, these diaries are just what you need to start 2025

- Shalini Umachandran

Digital diaries and apps are convenient, but there's something about making a list with pen and paper that makes you focus on a task. Whether you're jotting down ideas, writing reminders, making to-do lists, tracking meetings, or planning meals for the family, committing to paper is a good way to break tasks down into manageable parts and ease stress. And, to keep track of those tasks as we move towards 2025, it's time to invest in a good planner or diary.

There are a few things to keep in mind before you pick a planner. Firstly, check the paper inside—you don't want blots and splodges marring your day. Layout is the other thing to decide on—do you need a daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly planner? In general, daily planners that have a page for each day are best suited for those with lots of daily tasks. Planners also come in a range of sizes, so pick what works best for you. If you commute a lot, a compact, light, softcover one is best. Heavier hardback planners are great if you're mostly at your desk. Pocket diaries are good if you're listing meetings and things to do.

Overall, if you want to carry just one notebook-diary that combines scheduling with note-taking and general planning, a softcover A5 diary is what you need—and we've picked out a selection for you.