How many times throughout the day do we stumble upon something that is so utterly important (or life changing in some cases) that it causes us to pause and say “Memo to self”?

If you’re like me then that probably happens quite often. Some of my “Memos to self” have included line items such as:

• Memo to self- take more time to pray
• Memo to self- sign up for the next race
• Memo to self- call other sister to check on flight plans

The only problem with this is that it is actually only a mental “Memo to self” note and with all the chaos the days bring ~yes even the unemployed have chaotic days~ I tend to forget all about the mental memo.

The cure

I recently took on the role of being my own executive assistant. Meaning I plan and manage my time as a true gate keeper would. Using executive assistant techniques really cuts down on time wasting distraction.

A really great idea that I got from reading an article on Inc.com was from Danny Meyer. He has his executive assistant email him a daily memo at the end of the day. The memo he receives from his EA contains items specific to his business such as his next days schedule, questions and ideas that came up during the day. The memo also includes items that need to get done in his personal life as well.

I’ve been sending myself a daily “Memo to self” since the beginning of the month and although it has only been nine days, I can honestly say it has made a big difference. I am more focused at the start of the day because everything is outlined and planned. Plus, because I have written it prior to shutting down the PC for the night, there is no need to worry about it during evening quiet time or more importantly when I am sleeping.

My Written “Memo to self” includes

• daily to-do-list: exercise, plan dinner, craft, and pick-up kiddos etc
• list 10-15 blogs to read and comment on
• create a blog post rough drafts and write eHows
• answer emails and return phone calls
• create back link opportunities

The memos aren’t long and drawn out, they are quick and simple bullet points for what needs to get accomplished during the day. It sits on my keyboard and is the first thing I read when I sit down. No more to-do-list building first thing in the morning, because that just leads to 30-40 minutes of wasted time.

Also, if there is no work that needs to be done online then, get up and go outside, phone a friend, read a book or take a nap. Don’t sit in front of the PC if you don’t plan to be productive.

What are your thoughts? Do your days tend to get a bit chaotic? What techniques do you use to keep yourself organized and on top of things. Please share in the comments.

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