Where did I put that note?

I learned some things yesterday about taking notes. And in doing so, I began to learn how vital a tablet can be. And how I can resolve some of my problems with doing what I’m supposed to do and being where I am supposed to be.

First, I learned something I already knew. Keeping notes so that you know exactly where they are and what they are trying to tell you, is like trying to herd cats blindfolded. Subject to writing notes, you need a way to get at them whenever you need them and where ever you are.

So, what do you always have with you? We usually have our cell phone with us. If it is for business people, we probably have a tablet or a laptop. I’m a doodler, so I use my tablet with an electronic pen made for the tablet.

I learned that those who write notes out longhand and/or doodle are far more likely to remember those things they have written down. Having a good handle on needed pieces of information is something that I sometimes find a daunting challenge. Even worse, if you ask me two hours later where I put the note, you are most likely going to be met with a blank stare.

Once again modern technology comes to our aid. If you place your notes on a cloud on the web, you can always have them. Every platform these days has a web-based storage system for its users. It does not matter if you use Microsoft, Google, or Apple, there is a place we can store it on the web and reach it from anywhere. I always back up most of what I do both in the cloud, and on my primary device. This way, if anything unforeseen happens to either one, I can still get my data.

Do I still write out notes? Sometimes. Then I can take a picture of the page with my phone after the meeting, and store the picture with the rest of my notes.

Remember that notes are knowledge. And by controlling and using your notes wisely, you will have the power to go forth and do wise things for yourself, and for others.

Thank you for being with me today. I hope to be with you again tomorrow.

Author: Mike Balof

A retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Mike used to lay in bed at night and worry about what would happen if his plant closed or found himself without a job. One day his plant closed. Rather than panic and hysteria (OK, maybe a little) Mike found himself carried away on the adventure of his life. Mike started with the best job he ever had working at Home Depot. He spent 8 years working with job seekers at a local workforce center, helping them to find employment. He then started his own company developing courses, writing books and urging others to follow their own paths into the future. Mike holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training and a Bachelor of Business Management, earned through the University of Phoenix and an AAS degree in Electronics Systems Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Mike is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society. View all posts by Mike Balof