During my first deployment to Iraq, I was not only ejected from a vehicle due to a rollover incident, but my vehicle was hit with an IED, and “the only thing I got was this t-shirt”…, I am just kidding; all I received were two traumatic brain injuries. Slightly less fun, I know.
My Memory wasn’t what it used to be
Upon returning from that particular deployment, I noticed something was wrong with my memory and it felt like it was getting worse as time went on. I sought medical advice, and at that time, TBI treatment and attention weren’t at their peak, so the only answer I received then was to find ways to cope. That coping mechanism became notepads, and notebooks…all the time. If you saw me without a notebook, you might as well just forget telling me anything because I would.
Eventually, I had stacks of notebooks everywhere, and all were generally incomplete. Until I found the eraseable notebook. There are several out there that do different things and use different kinds of pens, but mine is one that is simple. It has lines, it has tough covers on it, and the special brand of pens are easy to find. And it wipes clean with water. My problems were solved; at least the crisis of stacked notebooks. But why did and/or do I need a notebook all of the time? I am glad you asked.
Planning is a fundamental part of achieving goals, whether they are personal, professional, or academic. Yet, as I and my notebooks have discovered, even the best-laid plans often fail. The reasons for this are unpredictable and unforeseen: shifting priorities, human error, or as in recent events, the potential impromptu interview. As someone who has faced the frustration of failed plans more times than I care to admit, the erasable notebook is a lifeline.
The Challenge of Sticking to Plans
Let’s face it, sticking to plans can be challenging. Here are some common reasons why plans fail.
1. Lack of Flexibility
Traditional notebooks or planners can feel rigid, and almost intimidating. Once you’ve written something down, it can be cumbersome to change it. This rigidity can lead to either sticking to a plan that no longer works or making a mess of your notes when trying to adapt. Do you just start a new page? Do you rip out the old one? Do you dog-ear it?
2. Human Error
We all make mistakes. Writing down the wrong date, forgetting a critical task, or simply misjudging how long something will take can throw off an entire plan. This happens to me a lot. Especially when I don’t write it in the correct spot. I am constantly finding the same notes written differently in other places.
3. Unforeseen Events
Life is unpredictable. Emergencies, opportunities, and sudden changes can make even the most well-thought-out plans obsolete.
The Erasable Notebook Solution
The innovation of the erasable notebook, as seen on Sharktank (possible, because I think I remember, but I am not sure) combines the flexibility of digital planning tools with the tangible satisfaction of pen and paper. Here’s why the erasable notebook is a game-changer:
1. Infinite Revisions
With an erasable notebook, you can easily change, update, or cancel your plans without making a mess. This allows for continuous improvement and adjustment of your plans, making them more robust and adaptable to change.
2. Eco-Friendly
Traditional paper notebooks can generate a lot of waste, especially if you’re constantly updating your plans. Erasable notebooks are reusable, reducing waste and being kinder to the environment. Perfect if you are a tree-hugger.
3. Cost-Effective
Over time, buying new planners and notebooks can add up. An erasable notebook is a one-time purchase that you can use indefinitely, saving you money in the long run. We can all admit that saving money is at the top of our minds. Imagine if your kids had erasable notebooks for school! One for each class. They could use them for several years without having to buy a new one.
4. Enhanced Creativity
The ability to erase and rewrite encourages brainstorming and free-form thinking. You can jot down ideas, erase them, and rework them until they’re just right without worrying about running out of pages or making permanent mistakes. This is perfect for me because I am constantly reinventing my day, my ways of organizing, or just changing it up to keep it fresh in my mind.
5. Portability and Convenience
Many erasable notebooks are designed to be compact and easy to carry, making them perfect for on-the-go planning. Some even come with integrated digital features, allowing you to upload your notes to the cloud. This means that you can leave that bulky laptop, tablet, or whatever at home. Simply use your phone to upload to the cloud and then erase the page as you head into the next meeting.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Erasable Notebook
To truly maximize the benefits of an erasable notebook, consider these tips.
1. Use Color Coding.
Different colors can help differentiate between tasks, priorities, and deadlines. Erasable pens come in various colors, making this an easy and effective strategy. I use different colors for my work, my hobbies, and my personal business development.
2. Regularly Review.
Set aside time each week to review and adjust your plans. I try and review and update any pages that I plan on keeping around or any notes not ready to upload on the cloud. If it needs to stay, I can consolidate it onto another page.
3. Digitize Important Notes.
Many erasable notebooks are compatible with apps that allow you to scan and save your notes digitally. This way, you can keep a permanent record of important information while still having the flexibility to erase and update your physical notebook.
Don’t fall back on piles of notebooks
Plans may fail, but the tools we use to make and adjust those plans can make a significant difference. An erasable notebook offers a flexible, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution to the common problems associated with planning. By allowing infinite revisions, encouraging creativity, and integrating seamlessly with digital tools, an erasable notebook can help you stay on track, adapt to changes, and ultimately achieve your goals.
And take it from me; if you have any kind of memory issues, this tool is perfect to help supplement daily plans or to ensure that you and your family, coworkers, supervisors, etc., are all on the same page.
