This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you click on the link, with no cost for you. It’s one of the ways I support my blog. You can read more about this here.
There’s something deeply satisfying about ticking things off a list, it’s like a tiny dopamine hit of “I’ve got my life together.” But let’s be honest, most of us make lists that never see daylight again. That’s where monthly lists come in, the secret weapon of organised, calm, focused women who want to stop winging it and start building momentum.
This post is your go-to guide for lists to make each month, from goal lists and gratitude logs to declutter and self-care checklists.
These aren’t about perfection or pressure; they’re about creating structure, celebrating progress, and giving your brain a break from trying to remember everything.
By the end, you’ll have 10 monthly lists that’ll help you stay grounded, motivated, and ready to take on whatever life throws at you, whether that’s a busy January schedule, a mid-year reset, or a cosy winter planning session.
Grab your notebook, pour a cuppa, and let’s get into the lists that’ll quietly transform your year.
1. The Monthly Goals List
Start with the big one, your monthly goals list. Write down three to five realistic goals that move you closer to your personal growth plan. Keep them clear, simple, and measurable, no vague “get fit” or “be productive.”
Think: “Go to three fitness classes,” “Cook five easy family meals at home,” or “Start a 10-minute night routine.” The point isn’t to do everything, it’s to create direction.
Once you’ve got your goals down, check out Monthly Planning 101: How To Set Goals That Actually Stick for a step-by-step guide to turning those good intentions into consistent results.
Writing down your goals hits different when it’s in a gorgeous planner. The Anecdote 2026 Planner has a whole section for monthly goals, plus weekly breakdowns so you can actually stick to them.
2. The Gratitude List
This one’s all about shifting your mindset. Every month, write 5-10 things you’re grateful for, big or small. It could be your morning coffee ritual, a friend who made you laugh, or the fact that your houseplants are still alive.
Gratitude lists help you focus on progress, not perfection. They also make brilliant prompts for journaling or a cosy Sunday night reflection routine.
3. The Declutter List
A tidy space really does equal a tidy mind, or at least fewer tripping hazards. Make a short list of areas to declutter each month: your desk, phone photos, wardrobe, or kitchen drawer of doom.
Breaking it down into smaller chunks makes the process way less overwhelming. It’s also a lovely mini reset to include in your New Month Reset Routine: Checklist Ideas To Refresh Your Month.
4. The Budget & Bills List
Not the most glamorous list, but absolutely essential. Track your bills, direct debits, savings, and spending. Add reminders for renewals and subscriptions, no one likes surprise charges halfway through the month.
Include a mini “fun fund” too, because balance matters. Whether it’s a new hobby, a weekend trip, or that diffuser you’ve been eyeing, joy should always have its own budget line.
5. The Habit Tracker List
Consistency beats motivation every time. Create a list of 3–5 habits to track this month, hydration, stretching, journaling, or screen-free evenings.
Keep it visible and easy to tick off daily. Small actions add up, and before you know it, those tiny boxes become proof of real progress.
You can also link this to your personal growth plan, tie your habits directly to your monthly goals for maximum impact.
📌 Pin this for later! ⬇
6. The “Don’t Do” List
Now for something a bit unexpected, your Don’t Do List. This one’s for habits, thoughts, or routines you want to leave behind. Think: “Stop saying yes to things that drain me,” or “No more checking emails before breakfast.”
It’s a brilliant mindset reset, a reminder that growth isn’t just about adding new things, but also letting go of what holds you back.
7. The “Things I’m Excited For” List
Give yourself something to look forward to every month. Whether it’s a coffee date, a cosy winter walk, or starting new hobbies, this list keeps your motivation alive.
You can even take inspiration from 51 Things To Do All Year Round | Monthly Bucket List Inspiration, it’s packed with ideas for small joys and seasonal fun that make life feel less like a to-do list and more like a life you love.
8. The Meal & Movement List
Planning food and movement in one place is a lifesaver. Write down:
- Your go-to healthy meals or snacks.
- New recipes you want to try.
- Favourite workouts, walks, or YouTube classes.
You don’t need a strict meal plan, just a flexible list that makes it easier to eat well and move more without overthinking it.
9. The Self-Care & Wellness List
This one’s for your energy, mood, and sanity. Each month, list things that make you feel good, baths, journaling, early nights, long walks, or reading in bed.
Turn it into a mini January self care challenge or a monthly wellness menu you can dip into whenever you’re feeling frazzled. If you’re into cosy routines, a night routine section here is a must.
Add a little luxury to your self-care list, I love winding down with a NEOM diffuser blend in the Wellbeing Pod. It’s the easiest way to romanticise your routine and actually stick to it.
10. The Reflection List
End the month with a quick reflection:
- 3 wins you’re proud of.
- 3 lessons you’ve learned.
- 3 things you’ll do differently next month.
It’s the perfect mix of self-awareness and gentle accountability, helping you grow without the guilt.
If you love the idea of continuous growth, 12 Challenges To Change Your Life: Your Ultimate Year-Long Growth Plan will give you simple monthly challenges to keep your momentum going all year.
Read These Next
- 12 Challenges To Change Your Life: Your Ultimate Year-Long Growth Plan
- 51 Things To Do All Year Round | Monthly Bucket List Inspiration
- Monthly Planning 101: How To Set Goals That Actually Stick
- New Month Reset Routine: Checklist Ideas To Refresh Your Month
Conclusion
These lists to make aren’t just about staying organised, they’re about clarity, calm, and confidence. When you create small systems that work for you, you stop running in circles and start moving forward with purpose.
Your lists don’t need to be perfect, they just need to be yours.
Next Steps
“Small lists create big change, because clarity is the first step to consistency.”
Read This Next: New Month Reset Routine: Checklist Ideas To Refresh Your Month
Check Out the Full Series: 51 Things To Do All Year Round | Monthly Bucket List Inspiration and 12 Challenges To Change Your Life: Your Ultimate Year-Long Growth Plan.
📌 Pin this for later! ⬇
