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The picture is actually my log book.

You may consider this update as “Captains’ Log Squared”, in that it exponentially increases the value of your log.

In order to make the most effective use of my log, I follow some guidelines and organizational/reference strategies.

From cover to cover.

1. Inside the front cover

I jot down telephone numbers, email addresses and web sites that come up during the day. I do not have an exact system for recording this information but, I try to put references that would be at the beginning of the alphabet on the top left inside corner of the front cover and those that would occur at the end of the alphabet on the bottom right corner.

It is also a convenient place to jot down passwords and system access procedures.

Since the log book has a fixed binding it provides an excellent foil for recording items chronologically. Consider it a running narrative of the events of the day. Fill each page before starting the next, regardless of where your date change occurs.

Remember to keep the first three pages front and back as a table of contents. Dates, then topics, then page numbers.

When you have completely filled the log, pop it onto a secure bookshelf and start a new log. I like to use a Dymo Pocket labeler to indicate the time span the log covers. I attach it to the spine of the log for easy reference from the shelf. I strongly suggest you do this, as well.

Compiling such a large volume of information can be overwhelming. So, I developed a system to help me more efficiently categorize my data and improve it as a reference resource.

2. I use a four color Bic pen. Each color has a different significance.

a) every day items are recorded in black.

b) follow up notes are recorded in blue.

c) crisis data are entered in red.

d) personal stuff is entered in green.

3. Highlighters add another dimension. They provide and additional lay of organization and strategy easily tracked by the eye.

a) Blue highlighter is for dates.

b) Yellow highlighter is for client contact data.

c) Green highlighter is a staff specific entry.

4. Post-it-Notes can add yet another dimension to the log. Jot items down when you don’t have your log available and insert them when you get back to your book.

Pros

This is a highly portable system.

It is not power dependent.

There is a high degree of flexibility

The expense is nominal.

Cons

If this artifact falls into the wrong hands you could be in deep trouble.

Vulnerable to over the shoulder snoops.

Employment conditions may make the log the property of your employer.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, October 30th, 2007 at 6:04 am and is filed under Elemental Truths, Reg Adkins, communication, personal development, success, tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.