My First Million
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Itzler Annual Planning System
A three-step system for intentional year planning: getting light (decluttering), closing out the previous year (reflection and gratitude), and setting one year-defining goal (misogi).
How It Works
Creates momentum through small actions, provides closure on the past year, and focuses energy on one major accomplishment rather than scattered goals.
Components
Get light: declutter physical and digital spaces, cancel unused subscriptions
Close out your year: personal audit, create highlight reel, write thank you letters
Set misogi: choose one year-defining challenge or accomplishment
When to Use
At year-end when you want to plan the upcoming year intentionally rather than reactively. Best for people who feel overwhelmed by multiple priorities and want to focus their energy.
When Not to Use
When you're in crisis mode and need immediate tactical solutions, or when you prefer spontaneous living without structure.
Anti-Patterns to Avoid
Example
“A busy entrepreneur with multiple businesses declutters their office and phone, reviews their accomplishments from the past year, writes thank you notes to key people, then commits to running their first marathon as their 2026 misogi.”
Related Knowledge
Create mental and physical space for the new year by eliminating clutter and unused commitments
Coming into the new year feeling light, organized, and ready to take action without the weight of accumulated clutter and obligations.
Create a comprehensive review of the past year to identify accomplishments, gaps, and lessons learned
A one-page summary of your year's highlights that makes you feel proud of what you accomplished and clear about what you want to do differently.
procrastination_on_planning
Calendar as Autobiography Framework
Viewing your calendar as your most honest autobiography and highlight reel - what you put energy toward reveals your true priorities and creates the story of your life.
CEO of Your Life
Thinking of yourself as the chief executive of your personal life, with the authority and responsibility to make strategic decisions about how you spend your time and energy.
Momentum Through Small Actions
Starting big projects with the smallest possible action to build psychological momentum, rather than waiting until you feel ready to tackle the whole thing.