Source: Priscilla Du Preez / Unsplash

Adult life can sometimes feel like a juggling act, balancing work, relationships and everything in between. Finding order and well-being can be challenging.

But here’s a tip: Using a calendar to plan your time can really make a difference. It’s not just about keeping track of dates and deadlines, it’s about consciously choosing what’s important and making time for it. Having your schedule clear in mind will help you tackle life’s complexities with clarity and purpose.

To simplify your life and increase your overall happiness, schedule these three days each month. Each one serves a specific purpose: to keep you organized, rested, and inspired.

1. Get everything in order day

This day is about taking charge and completing the important but easily neglected tasks that keep life running smoothly. In our hectic lives, these small but important tasks quickly pile up, causing unnecessary stress and disorganization. By reserving a specific day each month to tackle these tasks head-on, you ensure they are completed efficiently and consistently.

The tasks to be accomplished could include:

• Pay bills. Make sure all your bills (electricity, gas, rent or mortgage, credit cards) are paid on time to avoid late fees and maintain good credit.
• Organize finances. Review your bank statements, update your budget, and evaluate your financial goals. This is a perfect opportunity to plan upcoming expenses, adjust savings, or manage investments.
• Appointment. Book any medical check-ups, dentist visits, or other necessary appointments you’ve been putting off. This is also a good time to find out about upcoming renewals on things like insurance policies.
• Declutter. Research has shown that holding on to low-value items can contribute to depression, so take some time to declutter your living and work spaces by organizing your closet, sorting out old paperwork, or cleaning up your digital files and email.
• housekeeping. Make minor repairs around the house, maintain your car, or perform other maintenance tasks that may be necessary.

Here’s how you can take advantage of this day:

• By regularly managing your financial and administrative tasks, you will ensure that you meet your obligations, keep your finances and records in order, and avoid late payments, unnecessary fees, and the stress of last-minute rushes.
• By taking care of tasks before they become urgent, you reduce the stress and anxiety that can build up if you don’t complete your tasks.
• Completing these tasks on a designated day will give you a sense of accomplishment and control over your life, making you feel more organized and less overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities.

This structured approach also ensures smoother day-to-day workflows, as other days leave time for more focused and productive work and keep your mind clear, maximizing efficiency.

2. Day of idle hands

In our hyper-connected world, where constant activity and engagement have become the norm, burnout is an all too common result. An idle day or relaxation day is a set time to unwind, relax and recharge, with no obligations or plans. This day is about giving yourself permission to rest, reflect and just be, without feeling guilty about it. It’s a chance to pause and escape the relentless pace of everyday life.

On this day you have the following options:

• Disconnect from technology. The side effects of constant online activity are numerous, including physical symptoms such as headaches, eyestrain, body aches, and sleep disturbances. In addition, over-reliance on digital communication can hinder face-to-face interactions and lead to feelings of loneliness. Therefore, take a day off, turn off your phone, log off social media, and step away from your computer. Disconnecting from the digital world will help you be present and reduce the constant flow of information.
• Rest and relax. Spend the day doing restorative activities like reading, taking leisurely walks, meditating, or just lounging around. The key is to avoid anything that feels like a chore or obligation.
• Reflect. Use this time to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and life in general. This can be done through journaling, meditating, or just sitting quietly. Reflection can help you gain insights about your life and what matters most to you.

Taking time to do nothing has numerous benefits for your wellbeing. Firstly, your mind and body can recover from the stresses of everyday life by taking a much-needed break from constant activity. Switching off routine tasks promotes mental clarity and creativity as your brain resets and freely explores new ideas. Emotionally, it provides a sense of peace and contentment as you can reconnect with yourself and enjoy the simple pleasures in life. Paradoxically, a day of doing nothing can also increase productivity in the long term by renewing your energy and sharpening your focus for the tasks ahead.

3. Monthly summary of Mind Day

Take this day to step back, reflect on the past month, celebrate your progress, and plan ahead. It’s your time to pause, recognize your successes, and set a clear path for the future.

Here’s how you can spend this day:

• Go through your diary again. Take some time to read through your journal entries from the past month. Think about what you accomplished, how you felt, and what you learned from it. This exercise will help you identify patterns in your behavior and emotions and provide valuable insight into your personal development.
• Set new goals. Based on your reflections, think about what you want to accomplish in the coming month. Your goals can range from personal aspirations, such as starting a new hobby or improving your fitness, to professional ambitions, such as completing a project or learning a new skill. Setting clear, achievable goals will keep you motivated and give you something to strive for.
• Plan for the future. Use what you learned from your reflection and goal setting to design your schedule for the next month. Incorporate your new goals and adjust based on what worked well and what didn’t. This will ensure your upcoming month is well organized and aligned with your priorities.

This exercise will keep you grounded and give you a mental reset. Regularly reflecting on your experiences and successes builds a deeper connection with yourself. Take a moment to notice the positive aspects of your month. Write down things you are grateful for, no matter how small. Gratitude can significantly improve your mood and outlook on life and make you more appreciative of your journey along the way.

A version of this article also appears on Forbes.com.