Saving Time and Ideas

Often I will be working on a task and be briefly inspired or reminded somehow of an idea or other task that I must soon complete. This can very quickly lead to split focus, lack of attention on the current task, and ultimately may result in getting less done. Here’s a quick tip to help combat this issue:

• have with you during sit down tasks (such as study, writing, or research) a pen and small notebook
  • anytime a stray idea or thought pops into your head, take a brief moment to jot it down in your notebook
  • use only a few words, just to capture the essence of the thought and not waste time
  • remind yourself that what you are writing IS NOT the task currently being performed
  • tell yourself that whatever you are writing down can be dealt with later (as in, after you are done this first task).
  • This is key: it makes sense to first finish the task you are in the middle of as you have already decided to make that a priority. Keep it that way.
• Review your notebook once you’re done your work. You can pick from the notebook the next thing that requires direct attention either by doing that task, deferring it to another time, or simply crossing it off as insignificant

I’ve been employing this method for a long time now and I find it extremely useful. I’ve grown less picky about the recording medium over time as well. If I have an idea and my phone is right there, I will type in in Evernote if I don’t have a pen on me.

The method of capture isn’t so critical, the mental attitude about continuing on your current task is what matters here.