I loved this question: “… my problem is that I seem to have notebooks and tablets of paper with notes and lists and all kinds of things EVERYWHERE. Then, I get overwhelmed by the AMOUNT of notebooks and 3-ring binders, etc. that I use to keep track of everything from lists, journaling prompts, sketches, ideas, my writing notes, etc. etc. Any advice?!?!”
Yes! Here’s some advice.
I like to keep little notebooks like the one in the previous post in various places around my house to capture ideas, thoughts and to-dos. The idea is simply to get the info out of my head and onto paper (so I don’t have to keep thinking it or remembering it.) But this is a temporary holding spot for the idea. I then need to go around and collect the notes from the various temporary holding spots (primarily notebooks in my bedroom, office and kitchen … come to think of it I should put one in the bathroom for all my great shower-time inspiration. Do they make waterproof notebooks?) Then, I get the notes and put them where they belong “permanently.” Scrapbook page ideas in a folder called “scrapbook page ideas”. Things to pick up at the store in my circa notebook under “errands.” Ideas to blog about in a folder called “blog.” Article ideas in a folder called (you guessed it) “article ideas.” To dos go on a “next actions” list in my circa. New projects go on my master project list. And so on.
So the notebooks serve as temporary, unsorted places to capture ideas until they can be sorted and put into the permanent system — like the folders in my office or lists in my circa notebook (which I use like a planner.) So I think the big trick is to differentiate between notebooks designed to capture info and those designed to house the information permanently or at least until you’re ready to use it.
Does this help?
Aby, I love this entry! Great ideas and a wonderful peek into your organized life.
I just had to comment and let you know that there are indeed waterproof notebooks. And where better to find them? http://www.waterproof-paper.com! Specifically: http://www.waterproof-paper.com/waterproof-field-book.html I think they make them primarily for field scientists.
Janine
YES! This helps a TON!!! THanks SO MUCH and I also love having a list of some of the “permanent” notebooks you have as well. I have a pile of pads of paper that have a bunch of misc. notes in them and will make up some 3-ring binders this afternoon with some new headings!!! THANKS AGAIN! YOU ROCK.
Aby –
Great ideas for never losing that thought that flits through your mind at moments when we least expect it.
This is what I’ve done to keep myself organized and able to capture my thoughts:
I have a 1″ 3-ring binder that I use as my daily planner. I have sections for my calendar, contacts, shopping lists, master task list along with my weekly tasks lists (weekly items are pulled from the master list) along with sections for creative writing or notes such as favorite quotes, sketches for layouts I get inspired by or marketing ideas for my business. I searched and searched for just the right planner but couldn’t find one – but by creating one myself it has worked perfectly. and of course, like any planner, I carry it with me everywhere so it’s always close at hand.
Hope this helps someone else too.
~Pam
YES – makes total sense and a good reminder….I have notebooks all over the house, in my purse, etc. and I often forget that I need to move the info in there to a more permanant home. THANKS!
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