Running a small business means you wear all the hats—CEO, customer service rep, accountant and yes… marketing manager, too. One of the best ways to stay consistent with your online presence (without burning out) is by planning your content ahead of time. But when you’re the whole team, even thinking about a content calendar can feel overwhelming.

Don’t worry—I’ve got you. Here’s a simple, no-fluff approach to creating a content calendar that actually works for busy business owners.

1. Start with What You Can Do Consistently

Posting every day might sound great, but if it’s not sustainable, it’s not worth it. Start small and build up. Ask yourself:

• Can I commit to 1 Instagram post per week?

• Can I write 1 blog post a month?

• Can I send a newsletter every other week?

Pick 1–2 platforms where your audience actually spends time, and focus there. Consistency > frequency.

2. Choose 3–5 Content Pillars

These are your go-to themes that make brainstorming easier. Examples could include:

• Behind-the-scenes of your business

• Customer/client education

• Tips and tutorials

• Personal stories

• Product or service highlights

Now your content has direction. When it’s time to create, you won’t be staring at a blank screen.

3. Batch Create (Even Just a Little)

You don’t need a full-day content retreat. Try blocking off a few hours once a month to:

• Write three captions

• Design a few graphics or reels

• Schedule next week’s blog post

Batching saves time and decision fatigue. Even prepping just a week ahead makes a huge difference.

4. Use a Simple Tool (or a Spreadsheet!)

You don’t need fancy software. Use what works for you:

• Google Sheets or Notion – for a custom, low-pressure calendar

• Later or Planoly – for social media scheduling

• Trello or ClickUp – if you love checklists and moving pieces

Keep it simple and flexible. Your content calendar should work for you, not the other way around.

I personally use Google Sheets for content planning, schedule social media posts using the built-in calendar on Meta and dedicate one day a week to posting a new blog post, scheduling emails to my subscribers and pinning on Pinterest. Since having a robust social media presence isn’t my strategy, I don’t see the value in paying for scheduling software. On the other hand, if your strategy revolves around social media and consistent content, a paid software might be your best friend!

5. Reuse & Repurpose Like a Pro

One blog post can become:

• Three social posts

• A short email

• A Pinterest pin

• A reel or carousel

You don’t have to constantly create new—you just need to make the most of what you’ve already made.

Final Thought:

You don’t need to post every day or be on every platform. You just need a system that makes showing up easier. When you’re a team of one, strategy and simplicity are your best friends.

Take what works, leave what doesn’t—and remember: progress over perfection.

Ready to do this?

If you want expert help with your small business, let’s work together. Book a call today.

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