Looking for a great gift for you dreaming, scheming, type-A side-hustler?
Look no further, friends, because I’ve got you covered.
Thanks to some random social media interactions, I’ve been made aware of two fantastic planners that might be just what you’re high-strung, overly-planned loved ones are looking for.
So, let’s do this. I’ll present both notebooks, and then I’ll offer my commentary at the end.
First up, Passion Planner.
Passion Planner
Here’s a preview of the planner:
I “discovered” this two days after the KickStarter campaign was funded, and I crestfallen until I realized that you can still buy a copy of the Passion Planner or download the PDF by visiting their website. The Passion Planner comes in two sizes: Compact (5.5”x8.5”) for $25 or Classic (8.5”x11”) for $30. Both sizes cover and entire year.
Learn more on The Passion Planner website.
Second, Spark Notebook.
Spark Notebook
Here’s a preview of the notebook:
The Spark Notebook was actually suggested to me—by the creator—after I tweeted about Passion Planner. Way to hustle! I wouldn’t have found Spark otherwise. The Spark Notebook comes in one size (5.75”x8.25”), covers six months, and can be had by backing their KickStarter for $25 or more. (Not many $25 slots left. Also, any support over a $1 also will get you a copy of their layouts, which I think is cool.
Learn more on the Spark Notebook Kickstarter page.
Commentary
Both notebooks look elegantly designed and have been well thought out. Seriously, either of these notebooks would be a great start to taking control of 2015. It’s actually hard for me to pick a favorite because they is so much I like about both. The Passion Planner covers a whole year, which I like because I’m all about the big picture, but the Spark Notebook can lay flat on your desk because of its sleek design, which is really nice as well. I think the big deciding factor here, though, should be whether you’re looking for highly detailed, very drilled-down and focussed planner that will walk you through the year with in an intense, precise fashion, then the Passion Planner is for you. If you’re looking for a planner that will help you keep on task, take notes, plan out year week, and help you “get things done” in an effective way without forcing you in a regimented system, then Spark Notebook is definitely the way to go.
Personally, I think I’d love to combine the “passion” focus of the Passion Planner with the undated, free-flowing approach of the Spark Notebook, but then again, I’m weird like that.
Either notebook would make for an awesome Christmas gift, but act quick! Passion Planner is already backed up, and the Spark Notebook’s KickStarter ends soon.
How are you planning to take control of 2015?
[Videos and Images via PassionPlanner.com and Spark Notebook | Top planner image via stirwise via Compfight cc]
Allen Allnoch says
“… the Spark Notebook can lay flat on your desk because of it’s sleek design …”
Please, please, please learn to use “it’s” and “its” properly.
It’s: Contraction of it and is
Its: Posessive form of it
I see this error far too often in Churchm.ag posts.
Good tips, though. I plan to check out the Spark. It’s clearly a great idea; I would venture to say its time has come. If you know what I mean.
Phil Schneider says
Allen, thanks for the comment, but regarding your critique, I’ll add that I certainly do know the difference between the two words. What you have identified is what we generally call a “mistake.” You see, what happened here is not an issue of understanding but merely one of a writer typing faster than his brain or good sense should allow for.
Michael Hyatt says
Argh. The Spark Notebook Kickstarter ended six days ago.
Phil Schneider says
Oh no!! Michael, I have reached out to the designer on Twitter to see if there will be some way to purchase the notebook outside of the Kickstarter. That’s what Passion Planner is doing, and given Spark Notebook’s similar level of success, I would imagine that it would go the same route. I’ll post a reply to you on here once I hear something.
Phil Schneider says
Michael, I heard back from the designer. The Spark Notebook is available for purchase from http://www.thesparknotebook.com. However, I’m sorry to say that they won’t be shipping this second run until the summer. I’m so sorry that we didn’t get this out sooner, as I’m sure that you are already knee-deep into planning your “best year ever.”
PS-I loved Platform!
Heather says
Bought the undated edition of the passion planner. Thanks.
Phil Schneider says
Awesome! Hope it leads to a well-organized 2016.