Four times a year I go notebook shopping. I’ll typically buy four to six notebooks of different styles and colors, and when there are back-to-school sales I’ll often stock up on large packs of spiral notebooks which are typically dirt cheap then.
In my home, it’s not uncommon to find a notebook in almost every room, and while some will move around the house with me, one is always stationed on my nightstand. This notebook is often my most important and treasured one as it’s where I jot down the most ideas, thoughts, and feelings. Before I sleep, if there is something on my mind I write it down. If I can’t sleep, I write down what is bothering me. If I have a dream worth noting, the notebook is right there ready to record what I have to say.
Other notebooks are used for to-do lists, some are used to track all manner of things from diet, to exercise, to pet observations, and sometimes even the weather.
When taking notes becomes a habit, you’ll find that you remember things better, you’ll connect the dots between problems quicker, and you’ll simply get more done, more efficiently, with less stress and less anxiety.
One question I am often asked is, “could I just put notes on my phone?” and my answer is, you could, but it’s nowhere near as effective as writing it down. Notetaking is more than just words on paper. Your handwriting reveals urgency and stress. It allows you to quickly put emphasis on key points, and ideas. It also allows you to quickly sketch a visual when needed. While a phone may let you do all of those things, it’s nowhere near as efficient or inexpensive as traditional paper and pen.
Reward yourself with a notebook today, or four or five of them. Start using them regularly, and you’ll find success where you never found it before.