The Three-Minute Rule: Always Carrying a Notebook

Always carry a notebook. And I mean always. The short-term memory only retains information for three minutes. Unless it is committed to paper you can lose an idea for ever.

-Will Self

Yes, you can use your phone to take notes throughout your day. Absolutely. If that works best for you, fantastic!

I commend you so I’ll simply say, “Yes, I love that and I’ll keep using my notebook and pen because, for me, that tactile beauty of pen on paper seals the idea in my mind the way typing on a phone or computer hasn’t.”

This is another case where there is no right or wrong way to do it. There is only the way that works best for you.

If you’ve never tried the “old-school” notebook and pen method, I encourage you to pick up a notebook from your local dollar store and give it a try for 30 days.

Take it everywhere.

Write down anything you are called to write on its pages.

Transcribe them somewhere else, if needed, or don’t. You will always have a record of the amazing thoughts and story ideas that graced you throughout your days.

If for no other reason than this, I heartily encourage you to make this habit part of your life.