“A library, to modify the famous metaphor of Socrates, should be the delivery room for the birth of ideas—a place where history comes to life.”

~ Norman Cousin

Isn’t that the beauty of books? The ability to not only deliver us to different cultures, different places, and different times, but also the ability to give birth to new ideas. How often have you read a book and thought of  that great organization tip for the home, a way you could communicate more effectively with your spouse, or thought of  a great marketing idea.

Then perhaps, if you are like me, the idea leaves as quickly as it came.  Often nearly in the instance the thought popped into your head.

I discovered something that helped me solve the problem, and has allowed me to capture and find those ideas when I need them.

Perhaps it will help you, as well…

Read with a stack of 3 x 5 cards and a pen. When your read something that you want to put to use (perhaps in a later brainstorming session), or something that may later spur an idea worth developing,  jot it down on a card.

Now, a stack of cards with notes on various subjects doesn’t allow one to easily put the idea to use.  You’ll want to be able to find the idea when you need it.  So here’s how you handle that…

Put the general subject in the upper right hand corner of the card, and the more specific subject on the left hand corner. List any additional things that you’ll need on the card as well.

For example, I may be reading a parenting book and come to a solution that I could use with my kids. Perhaps it is something to help with sibling rivalry (I can always use plenty of tips on that). I would write “parenting” in the right hand corner, and the topic: “breaking habits” in the upper left hand corner, and file it in the parenting box, under the sibling rivalry category.

My business box has categories like advertising ideas, training, networking resources and more. My training topics will be broken down into very specific categories; things like marketing, advertising, moral.

I’ll often write down very specific quotes. In that case I’ll write down the authors name, the name of the book, and the page number and other things I’ll need to reference later when I use them.

This technique comes in handy with magazines as well.  When I’m reading and come upon a fun craft project my girls would enjoy I write it down on the 3 x 5 card and file it appropriately. If it is a Christmas craft I file under Christmas, and then crafts. If it is a general craft it just goes under crafts. I also keep notes such as appropriate ages, special supplies that are needed etc.

I keep a file box on separate subjects. One for business, one for parenting, etc. Organize the cards in a way that makes the best sense to you. That way you are more likely to find the topic when you need it.

I find that this  old fashioned paper and pencil method works best for me because it can take it with me anywhere I am. If I am the mountains, in a restaurant, or reading in bed it works.

Feel free to share methods that you use to track your ideas.

Leisa Watkins
I’m Here for Your Success