How to Create a Productivity Planner That People Actually Use - and Buy
Whether you're a business coach, creative entrepreneur, or product-based founder ready to diversify, creating a productivity planner can be both a passion project and a profitable move.
Done right, it becomes more than paper and prompts - it’s a tool that reflects your brand, supports your audience, and brings consistent income, day after day.
We know, because we’ve done it. When High Flying Design first launched a physical planner, it wasn’t backed by investors or an Amazon algorithm - just a smart design, a great cause, and a vision that sold out.
Here’s exactly how to bring your own productivity planner to life - and turn it into a product people actually use.
Step 1: Know Who You’re Designing For
This isn’t just a notebook - it’s a solution.
Before you touch a template or call a printer, get clear on:
Who’s it for? Entrepreneurs? Therapists? Students?
What’s the transformation? Clarity? Confidence? Balance?
What sets it apart? Is it digital? Undated? Beautiful and practical?
If you already have an audience (Instagram, newsletter, or clients), use that insight. Their habits, frustrations, and goals = your planner’s foundation.
Step 2: Research What Works - and What’s Missing
Now it’s time to test your idea.
Search Amazon, Etsy, Pinterest, and Notion template stores. Read reviews. What do people love? What do they wish existed?
You’ll notice trending planners like:
The Productivity Method by Grace Beverley — wellness + goal-setting
Papier planners — colourful, aesthetic, UK-based
Or Intelligent Change’s Five Minute Journal — backed by psychology, sleek layout
The sweet spot? Something that reflects your brand but solves a specific pain point.
Step 3: Create Something That Looks Good and Works Hard
This is where your creativity shines - and your planner starts to take shape.
Consider:
Format: Daily? Weekly? Hardcover? Spiral-bound? Digital?
Function: Time-blocking? Reflection prompts? Habit trackers?
Style: Minimalist? Bold and bright? Elegant and editorial?
Your planner isn’t just a product — it’s an experience. The more enjoyable and intuitive it is to use, the more likely people are to buy, re-buy, and recommend it.
Design tips:
Use Canva, InDesign, or buy planner templates on Etsy (ensure a resale license).
Work with a freelance designer from Fiverr or 99Designs.
Consider using Notion if you're creating a digital version (ideal for coaches and creatives).
Step 4: Choose How You’ll Print It
There are two main production paths:
Print-on-Demand (e.g. Amazon KDP, Lulu, Blurb)
Best for testing an idea or starting small
✅ No upfront stock
❌ Lower profit margins, limited control over finishes
Bulk Printing
Work with a UK-based printer for full control and lower unit cost
✅ High profit margin, custom options
❌ Requires upfront investment + inventory management
Always order a sample first. Check paper thickness, colour accuracy, and durability before committing to a full print run.
Step 5: Map Out Your Launch and Sales Strategy
Beautiful planners don’t sell themselves - but a few smart strategies will set you up for success:
Where to Sell:
Your own website (Shopify or Squarespace)
Etsy (especially if design-led or niche)
Amazon (for wider search reach)
How to Sell:
Build a waitlist with a free planner page opt-in
Launch with limited-edition bonuses
Offer bundles (e.g. planner + pen set or stickers)
Work with influencers who love planning or organisation
Embed affiliate links in your product pages (e.g. tabs, pens, desk stands)
Bonus: Go Digital (and Passive)
Prefer to skip physical inventory?
Create a digital productivity planner for:
Notion (ideal for tech-savvy users and business owners)
PDF downloads (printable or editable)
GoodNotes or iPad planners (for creative and on-the-go users)
Use Gumroad, Etsy, or your own site to sell. Instant delivery = low cost, low risk, global reach.
And If You’re Wondering - Is This Really Worth It?
Absolutely.
Creating your own productivity planner is more than a revenue stream. It’s a creative expression. A trust-building tool. A tangible reminder of the brand you’re building - and the people you’re serving.
You don’t need to be a stationery company. Just someone with a vision, a clear purpose, and a plan that helps people stay on theirs.
This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love and think you'll find useful on your founder journey.
Thank you for supporting High Flying Design. 🌿
