There are some memories I don’t ever want to recall again. On the other hand, if I erase those memories, I would also erase the event/person/situation that the memory is based on. Taking it a step further, erasing that event/person/situation would also erase the valuable lesson that I learned as a result.
If the opportunity provides itself to completely erase something from my memory, I would politely decline. The big picture is far more important to me.
I’m going to be completely honest with you. I was 23 years old before I figured out how to memorize large chunks of information. It was a fast-paced job where the complex protocols would change almost daily. While it was beyond frustrating, I had no choice but to digest and process.
I digest and process information in two ways:
1. Shorthand
Working in a face-paced environment doesn’t allow you to write in full sentences. By the time I write a full sentence, I’ve forgotten the information. I use a system of words, numbers, and symbols that allow me to retain large chunks of information. This works as long as I write legibly…which doesn’t always happen.
2. Repetition
In the event shorthand is not an option…repeat, repeat, repeat. That’s right. I will walk around the office and/or my house repeating information until I’m able to write it down. What’s funny is when I use repetition, I use shorthand as well. I can’t repeat an entire paragraph repeatedly, but I will break the paragraph up and only repeat what’s important.
There it is. Simple and highly effective. What memory devices do you use to memorize large chunks of information?
Between my full-time job and this blog, time management is crucial. Having to-do lists help me to organize my tasks not only by importance, but also the amount of time it takes to complete each task. Even on my lazy days, there’s always something I can check off that damn list.
I wanted to share a few tools that I use to keep me organized.
1. Evernote
I discovered the awesomeness that is Evernote last year. Why it took me so long is beyond me. I love that Evernote works not only on the web, my also on my cell, laptop, and tablet. I manage my to-do lists, and keep blogging/writing tips, blog post/short story/essay ideas. Oh, and Evernote Web Clipper is a blessing! I have it installed as a Google Chrome extension and use it to clip webpages for future use. Saves me a lot of money on printer ink.
2. Google Calendar
Life happens. I wouldn’t be able to keep up with appointments, social events, birthdays, etc if it wasn’t for Google Calendar. Like Evernote, Google Calendar works across multiple platforms. You can also create different calendars within (e.g. blogging, social, etc).
3. Physical Planner (For Writing Only)
I have a physical planner that I use for writing only. When participating in writing challenges, I like to plan posts at least a week ahead of time. I also use it to notate deadlines for writing contests and blog maintenance tasks. There’s something about using pen and paper that’s soothing in a world where a keyboard has slowly become the norm.
What tools do you use to keep yourself organized? Are you totally technology-based, pen & paper only, or both?