I consider myself a pretty organized individual.
Um…let me rephrase that. I used to consider myself a pretty organized individual. Then I became a writer who couldn’t pass up a good newsletter or blog. I mean, all that great information out there–for FREE!–well, my inbox runneth over.
But I was determined to tame the Inbox Beast and not pass up all that great info. 2015 was gonna be different. (There were emails from 2013 in my inbox. 2013, y’all.) So I’ve devised a new system, and so far, it’s working splendidly. Maybe it’ll work for you.
In the past, I’d bookmark interesting, fun, or timely writing sites that I would come across in a blog post or newsletter. Or I’d make a little note for myself, like “FF–15 punctuation marks.” But then I’d a. lose the notes or b. have to scroll down FOREVER to find the bookmarked site (which might say “Submission guidelines”. Oy. Do you know how many sites I bookmark that say “Submission Guidelines”? I don’t know, either, but it’s a lot.)
So I decided, whilst culling through the 331 emails (all the way from 2013) that I would open a Word Document. Any info that I would need in a timely manner, I copied and pasted there. Right now, for example, I have additional info re: two Chicken Soup call outs. I have the link to the Reader’s Digest Poetry Competition. I have the Highlights information for the annual Fiction Contest. And here’s what’s really worked for me: I keep the document open (though not on screen) all the time.
So if I have a thought about the contest, I insert a note on the document. If I have an idea about the essay, I do the same. And best of all, I don’t spend a ton of time, looking for links or notes jotted on paper. And every day, the little blue W on the bottom of my screen sort of reminds me: These projects are waiting for you!
It’s true, I’ve always had a calendar over my desk where I have deadlines and such. But having all the information about those deadlines, right at my fingertips, has been extremely helpful in the time-saving department. And time–and deadlines–wait for no writer.
(So how about you? Got a special time-saving tip? Let’s add it to the list!)
Cathy C. Hall Writes 
I’m even worse! I have emails from 2009 that I’ve been holding on to! I could spend a whole day just organizing my inbox!
2009? Well, yes, Tina, you’re kinda worse. 🙂 I do have one email from 2008 in my inbox but it’s an Irish prayer. (For when I need a prayer break during work!)
Cathy–I’m pretty hopeless when it comes to organizational skills. I have no tips to offer you. But vicariously, after reading your post, I enjoyed a moment of clutter-free organization.
Glad to be of service, Sioux. 😉
Your idea is a great one. My bookmarks list is so long I can’t ever find a thing. I use a Franklin Planner, and although I try to keep good notes, sometimes I find I just haven’t written down exactly the right thing. This seems to happen more and more as I get older. *sigh* Your cut & paste idea, now, that can work. 🙂
Cut and paste, Lisa. Cut and paste. Time-saver and a memory-saver. 😉
No, I have no time saving tips whatsoever, and I’ll admit I don’t understand a whole lot of what you said about bookmarking and opening documents, etc…I do best if I just keep writing and try not to think of all the things I’m missing and/or forgetting. BUT, speaking of not forgetting, thanks for the great submission info. I needed the reminder!
Hahahahhaa! Well, I’m glad I could help, Deb. (At least, I think I helped–I’m not really sure…) 🙂
What a brilliant idea! I have a notes app that puts little digital Post-It notes on my desktop, and do you think I’ve ever thought of using it in this way? Not until now. I’m going to use your idea in my notes app. I’ll keep you posted. (Sorry about the bad punny!)
Come on, Suzanne–you know I LOVE a good pun. 🙂 Good luck with your notes!
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