How She Actually Does It: with Nadalie Bardo from It’s All You Boo

A good system is all about knowing yourself and creating an environment where you can thrive and achieve your goals. And that’s exactly what Nadalie Bardo from It’s All You Boo has done. Nadalie is a rockstar at creating and accomplishing goals. In today’s interview, Nadalie is sharing about the Google Doc she checks every day, how she balances structure and inspiration, and why she rarely gets overwhelmed. Read on for her refreshing and practical perspective.

How often and when do you set goals for yourself?

I am always setting goals for myself. I couldn’t stop if I tried. Usually, around the end of the year, I do a massive goal setting session where I plan out the next year. Then throughout the year, it’s just a matter of adjusting the plan to fit my reality. 

It’s easy to set goals on paper, but as you get started you realize that either you over-estimated what you could do or things change. 

It’s easy to set goals on paper, but as you get started you realize that either you over-estimated what you could do or things change. 

Talk me through your weekly planning process

It’s kind of funny, as I’m sitting here in an airport answering these questions because my process was developed in similar circumstances. I’ve been using the same Google Doc for a few years now to write out my plan for the coming months and weeks.

So, planning my week always starts first and foremost in this document. I have all the things I’d like to do for the coming weeks outlined, and then as I reach that week I then assign those tasks to a day. 

I probably haven’t gone a single day in years without checking this document a few times. I’d love to say that I always get it done, but the benefits of using a doc to plan is that it’s really easy to readjust the plan. To move tasks that just aren’t as important down to another day. 

Plus, on my desk, I have a clipboard with a printable monthly planner with space for me to write in important reminders like calls, parties or trips. Together this keeps me organized and focused throughout the week. 

What tools do you find indispensable for staying organized?

I really don’t believe you need to be organized. Pen and paper are a great place to start, or if you’re like me a blank document. Just write it all down. Then, grab your calendar (iCal or Google Calendar) or project management software like Asana or Trello and get scheduling. Set reminders. 

If we’re talking about goal setting, a great planner like my Slay Your Goals Planner can help you go from big ideas to step by step plans. It’s hard to be organized when you don’t know what you’re working towards, or what’s important in your life. 

How do you structure your workdays?

Every day for me is a workday and a holiday. You can imagine how interesting that makes scheduling my days. 

But I’m a fan of creating a rhythm for yourself. Certain tasks happen not just on certain days of the week, but at specific times as well. That way, I always know when I should be doing what. There’s no confusion. 

Then again, I give myself the freedom to do what I feel like when I feel like it. I don’t assign tasks to certain times every day, but let myself choose what I’d like to do when I feel like it. I’m structured, but I allow myself that freedom. It enables me to feel passionate and 100% inspired to work on something that sparks my interest. 

There are other times when something just needs to get done and this approach won’t work, but I’m naturally not a “leave it to the last minute” kind of person. I prefer to get things done and just schedule it for the future.

What do you do when you feel stuck or overwhelmed?

Hmm. It’s honestly been a while since I’ve felt stuck. The benefit of being a few years into working for yourself is that you’re pretty competent and confident in what you need to do. 

I think if you find yourself in either situation you need to take a break and just walk away for a while. Go for a walk, take the day off or even just go on a little getaway. Then come back with fresh eyes and renewed spirits. Both of these emotions can be seriously draining. 

Once you’re ready, start with a blank sheet of paper or empty document and just write it all out. Try to find a way forward, make a plan, brainstorm ideas or seek help. Ask a friend, mentor, colleague or someone you admire for advice. 

Sometimes the only way forward is through. I keep overwhelm at bay by constantly just being mindful and present of everything I’m doing. If I’m designing Pinterest Pins I’m there, loving every second of it. If I’m scheduling blog posts, I’m enjoying it. I’m really good at not thinking about what’s next or the endless list of things I need to do. Just be fully in whatever you’re in, find the joy, find the enjoyment and let the overwhelm melt away. 

Sometimes the only way forward is through. I keep overwhelm at bay by constantly just being mindful and present of everything I’m doing.

What is your favorite productivity book or who is your favorite productivity teachers?

So, I’m a bit of a weirdo in that I don’t really read any personal development or self-help books. When you spend so much of your energy submerged in a topic, you don’t necessarily want to read about it in your spare time. 

I really just enjoy reading the guest posters who contribute blog posts to my site. I always learn something new. 

One book that has taught me to lean into the challenge, to push through the task that’s difficult is The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday.

How has your approach to productivity changed over time? 

I’d say that I used to think that productivity was about getting the most done in the least amount of time. But as I’ve matured, I’ve realized that it’s getting the right things done. 

I used to think that productivity was about getting the most done in the least amount of time. But as I’ve matured, I’ve realized that it’s getting the right things done. 

Productivity isn’t about quantity, it’s about quality. Learning how to prioritize your time and energy for the tasks that truly matter and are impactful to your life. 

I focus on finding ways to do less and getting more. Thus, freeing up more time for other things. 

Bonus Questions! What is your favorite kind of pen to write with? 

Oh, I love a good pen. I’m hoping to switch to a refillable ink pen soon to cut down my pen footprint. But I’m a fan of BIC Gelocity even though the ink sometimes gets all over everything. And I love Sharpie Fine Pens and how they come in so many fun colors.

More about Nadalie!

Nadalie Bardo is here to help you slay your goals, so you can pursue your boss life with confidence + action. As the Founder of It’s All You Boo, she curates the very best content to keep you motivated and inspired to slay your goals in life and business. Nadalie is the creator of the Slay Your Goals Planner, the only planner dedicated to helping you actually achieve your goals. Take her FREE Goals Quiz here and discover what area of your life you should focus on.