As I was unpacking paperwork from our move last summer, I came across a small, spiral-bound notebook. I had had it for notes about the new house and little scribbles about mortgage figures, etc. However, without thinking, I put it into my pocket. It fit perfectly.
I started carrying it around with me. I put it on my desk, in my purse, in my pants. I started taking all kinds of notes in it: blog post ideas, lists, grains of story sand, reminders of things to do.
It has been a godsend.
No matter what you do – whether you’re a desk jockey, a janitor, a veterinarian, or a vacuum cleaner salesman (if you are, tell me, I want to know if this is still a thing) – always have a simple, nondescript spiral notebook.
The best ones are:
- Thick
- Have enough room to fit a pen into the side
- Sturdy
- Have nothing printed on the cover or any inference that it is anything other than a plain notebook
- Perforated pages
Keep it on you at all times. Here are ten rapid fire things you can do with it to achieve ultimate work-life mastery:
- Write a poem.
- Rant about something that is bothering you.
- Make a list of places you want to visit before you die.
- Keep track of hilarious quotes you hear in the lunch room.
- Write down your favorite songs of all time.
- Imagine what the world would be like if you were king/president/high chancellor.
- Create doodle animals.
- Sketch out an editorial calendar for your blog.
- Complete a self portrait.
- Make a list of bizarre character names.
So do it now. Go to the drug store and get a spiral notebook. It will save your soul.
bohemian.on.rye 