Ever had a brilliant idea, only to realize you scribbled it on the back of a coffee-stained napkin that’s now missing? Or maybe you wrote down an important client’s phone number… on your electricity bill, which is now buried in a pile of mail (or worse, in the trash)?
If your “note-taking system” is a mix of random scraps of paper, sticky notes, and the back of your hand, we need to talk. Because let’s be real—losing notes loses time, ideas, and sometimes, your sanity.
Let’s end the chaos and create a system that actually works!
The Problem: Your Notes Are All Over the Place
You tell yourself, I’ll remember where I put that! Spoiler alert: You won’t.
Common Offenders:
- The “Write-It-On-Anything” Method (receipts, old envelopes, magazine margins)
- The “Sticky Note Avalanche” (a sea of yellow squares with no organization)
- The “I’ll Remember It” Lie (you won’t—your brain has better things to do)
- The “Hand Scribbler” (washes hands, instantly forgets everything)
If this sounds like you, don’t worry—you’re not alone. The good news? There’s a better way.
The Solution: A Note-Taking System That Works
1. Pick ONE Primary Place for Notes
- Paper Person? Get a designated notebook (yes, ONE). Not ten. Just one.
- Digital Fan? Use apps like Evernote, OneNote, or Google Keep.
- On-the-Go? Use your phone’s notes app (but actually organize it).
Pro Tip: Keep your notebook or app handy at all times. If it’s inconvenient, you won’t use it.
2. Categorize & Label Your Notes
Because “Random Scribbles” is not a helpful filing system.
- Business Ideas? Have a section just for them.
- To-Do Lists? Separate from brainstorming notes.
- Meeting Notes? Label with dates and keywords for easy search.
Pro Tip: If you’re using digital notes, create folders or tags to organize them!
3. Use a Capture-Then-Organize Method
Step 1️: Write everything down (brain dump, ideas, reminders).
Step 2️: Organize it later (once a day, review & file it properly).
This prevents the “I’ll organize it someday” black hole.
Pro Tip: Color code if you’re a visual person. Make your to-dos pop!
4. Make It a Habit
Your system won’t work if you don’t use it consistently.
- Set a daily note review time. Just 5 minutes to check, organize, and delete old notes.
- Plan ahead. Transfer important notes into your calendar or task manager.
- Stick with it. Changing habits takes time, but consistency is key!
Pro Tip: If you struggle with habits, use an accountability coach (like me!) to keep you on track.
Final Thought: Save Your Notes, Save Your Sanity
Your million-dollar ideas deserve more than a crumpled napkin. Creating a simple, organized note system will:
- Save you time
- Reduce stress
- Make you feel like a productivity boss
So, step away from the grocery receipt, get yourself a real note-taking system, and let’s make those goals happen!
Need help staying organized and accountable? Let’s work together! Book a coaching session today.