Why You Keep Losing Your Notes & What to do About It
Like many of you, I’ve been attending workshops, talks, networking groups, and mastermind meetings for years. A while back I went to an event with a friend. My notes are on the left and my friend’s notes are on the right. How are they different?
Experience has shown me that there’s a good chance hers will end up in a pile or folder (if she’s lucky) never to be seen again. She might even come across them one day and wonder, “Where’s the 2nd page to this?” and “What event is this from?” or “There’s good info in here! I wish I had found this earlier.” Hers are loose pages and mine are in a notebook that I’ve been using since 2009, dedicated solely to business building notes. When I go to an event, I grab this one notebook. When I need to refer to a business idea note, I grab this one notebook. I trust that ever good business idea I've had or heard since 2009 is in this notebook.
Notes are like anything else we keep: almost never to be looked at again, but saved for peace of mind. At least have them all in one place and accessible just in case someday maybe you might want to use them. Dedicate this notebook just to business/event/marketing/workshop notes. Use it, and only it, until it’s full. You don't have to do this retroactively, though it would be a good way to review your brilliant ideas and notes. Going forward, reach for the notebook and not the scrap paper or hotel-provided notepads (that both you and I know will end up in the trash)!
WARNING: Branded journals are given out at many workshops and conferences. Resist! I never pick these up! Just because it's free doesn't mean it's helpful. I prefer a spiral bound notebook that stays open when flat on a table. Here’s a link to the exact notebook I use. I think it’s the perfect size.
Do you have a collection of notebooks that are only full up to page 5? Are your brilliant ideas scattered on paper scraps, pads and various journals? Are you willing to commit to only one business/idea notebook going forward? Was this post helpful? Please share your comments below!
