How I Plan My Weekly Tasks as an Illustrator: Tips for Staying Productive

The Importance of Weekly Planning

Hey there! As an illustrator, managing my weekly tasks used to be a daunting challenge. However, I discovered that regular planning has significantly boosted my productivity and kept me on track with my projects. In this blog post, I'll share how I plan my weekly tasks and how you can benefit from doing the same. Plus, don't forget to download the free weekly planner I've attached to this post!

Creating a Weekly Overview

The first step in my planning process is creating a weekly overview. Every Saturday morning (my only weekend), I sit down with a cup of coffee and map out my tasks for the upcoming week. This includes client projects, personal work, and any administrative tasks that need attention. By having a clear picture of what needs to be done, I can prioritize my time effectively. Yes, some things might stay untoucjed but I will already know that for the next week.

(or, perhaps, they were not that important to begin with!)

Breaking Down Tasks into Manageable Steps

Once I have an overview, I break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if I have an illustration project due by Friday, I'll divide it into stages: sketching, outlining, coloring, and final touches. This approach makes the project feel less overwhelming and helps me track my progress throughout the week.

If I need to prep tree reels for Instagram, I will start by looking for ideas, then shooting them and then, perhaps, even on the day of publiscation, I will edit them and upload. This way, I always have reels on hand and on schedule.

Allocating Time Blocks

Next, I allocate specific time blocks for each task. I use a combination of digital tools and a physical planner to schedule when I'll be working on each task. I find that dedicating focused time blocks to specific tasks helps minimize distractions and keeps me more organized. It also ensures that I don't overextend myself, leaving room for breaks and leisure activities. For, exapmle, I know that I will spend 30 minutes a day on Pinterest, 30 minutes on Behance 2-3 days a week, etc.

Adjusting and Adapting

This is not so strick as it looks. I am feeling free to change whatever but still, having, these things planned help me move forward with the task I simply do not want to do.

Spent all mornig in a skethcbook, ot admiring other artists insetad of soimng work? That sounds too familiar to me, haha!!

I understand that plans can change, and flexibility is key. I regularly review my progress and make adjustments as needed. If something takes longer than expected or a new task comes up, I reshuffle my schedule to accommodate these changes. Staying adaptable ensures that I can handle unexpected challenges without falling behind.

Conclusion: Boost Your Productivity with Regular Planning

Planning my week has been a game-changer for my productivity as an illustrator. By creating a weekly overview, breaking down tasks, allocating time blocks, and staying flexible, I've been able to stay on top of my work and enjoy a better work-life balance. If you’re looking to boost your productivity, give weekly planning a try. And don't forget to download the free weekly planner I've attached to help you get started!

I will share a secret, I am practicing planning for a month and I am loving it! It gives a way bigger picture.

So, coming up with the montlhy calendar for illustrators to navigate our "Jack of all trades" job does sound like a great idea!

Love,

Irina ♥

Illustrator's Free

Weekly Planner

Design 1:

Design 2:

I have created two planner designs with clover flower.

I hopy you'll enjoy it!